Sarnia residents will have to haul their leaf and yard waste to the curb in paper bags or reusable containers -- at least for the last six months of this year.
City council stood by its decision to ban plastic bags starting July 1, but agreed to evaluate how the fall collection went before deciding what to do in 2020.
"I find it disconcerting that we seem to reconsider or rehash items, time and time again, I think it is inappropriate," said Councillor Mike Stark.
The city expects to save over $250,000 a year in worker fees by switching to paper.
"The cost estimates of $258,000 represent, over a four-year term, in excess of $1 million. A million dollars is a lot of money. So, the budget considerations must be dealt with," said Stark.
In a report to council, Marcotte Disposal said de-bagging by hand is extremely labour intensive, they have a hard time finding people to do the job and would have to spend another $75,000 for de-bagging equipment if the city wanted to keep plastic.
Recycling will no longer be collected in plastic bags after Canada Day.
Residents are encouraged to buy blue boxes at city hall or public works.
