SEATTLE (Recycling Monster): The City of Decatur is set to consider a major upgrade to its recycling operations, as the city council prepares to vote on new equipment aimed at significantly boosting processing capacity. The proposal includes the purchase of a new baler and funding approval for an advanced artificial intelligence (AI) sorting system.
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The move comes after recycling collection was suspended due to the failure of the facility’s existing baler, which is used to compress recyclable materials for transport and sale. City Council President Kyle Pike emphasized that the AI-powered sorter will play a key role in improving operational efficiency. Currently, the facility processes around 3,600 tons annually, but the proposed upgrades are expected to double that output.
The AI sorting system, estimated to cost $740,000 and funded through the Landfill Enterprise Fund, will rapidly identify and separate recyclable materials. To support the increased throughput, a second baler costing approximately $115,000 is also required.
Residents have expressed concerns over the suspension, citing waste buildup and environmental risks.
If approved, the new system could be operational within six weeks, restoring services and enhancing long-term capacity.