October 27, 2008
Keokuk, Fort Madison redemption facilities receive state grants
DES MOINES - Ninety-five can redemption centers across Iowa will receive grants from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources to continue their efforts to keep Iowa clean.
Southeast Iowa Redemption Center in Keokuk and Fort Madison were among the 95 centers to receive funds.
The Keokuk facility received a $15,000 grant which requires a cash match of $9,720. The grant will be used to reface the flagship redemption center, build a loading dock, build an entrance handicap ramp, build a weather awning for the loading door and install an electric forced air furnace and ducting.
The Keokuk center also received a $15,000 grant which must be matched with $7,684 for an LS 160 New Holland skid loader.
In Fort Madison, the redemption facility received a $15,000 grant for a 2003 Ford 12-foot box truck. A cash match of $1,585 is required.
According to the Beverage Market Data Analysis from the Container Recycling Institute, Iowa ranks first in its region for return rates per capita, with 86 percent of containers redeemed annually.
“As governor, I am committed to protecting the land, lakes, rivers and streams that we all love,” said Gov. Chet Culver. “Iowa's can redemption centers provide a valuable service by helping to keep cans and bottles out of landfills, waterways and green spaces. I am proud to announce these grants, and support their mission of keeping Iowa beautiful.”
The DNR drafted formal administrative rules, criteria and procedures for the application process. Applications were due early October and addressed the goals of sustainability, convenience and accessibility, with no redemption center to receive more than $15,000 in funding.
“So many of the proposals were for very basic building and equipment improvements,” said Bill Blum, Department of Natural Resources program planner. “Some redemption centers are using their grants to get can-counting machines, business computers, and facility developments that will make them more efficient to grow and better serve their communities.”
The Redemption Center Grants Program was passed into law by the 2008 Iowa Legislature, allocating $1 million to create a grants program for improvements to independent redemption centers. The statute directed the DNR to administer the program.
The emergency rule-making process was used to expedite the awarding of grants, shortening a potential year-long process to four months.
http://www.dailygate.com/articles/2008/10/27/news/03.txt
