Snowy Monaro Regional Council (SMRC) councillors and staff were on-hand to speak to Michelago residents at an information session concerning the Bank of Bins (BoB) changes happening next month.

There were 27 people at the information session and most were positive about the changes, Michelago resident and Councillor Tanya Higgins, said.

Crs Higgins, Hopkins and mayor Cr Hanna were joined by three staff from council’s resource and waste folio.

Residents were encouraged to complete a BoB survey.

“People can complete the survey and give feedback, whether or not they are BoB users, so council can communicate the wishes of the community to the EPA,” Cr Higgins said.

Michelago BoB users were advised last year that 24/7 access would end on 24 October. However the facility could be accessed daily between 8am and 6pm after this date until further notice.

This change was ordered by the NSW EPA to reduce the noise pollution.

More recent changes have involved re-routing and shielding vehicle access from residential areas by acoustic fencing to further reduce noise pollution levels associated with the site.

This change will be bolstered by the installation of a new automated access restriction system to ensure that the new hours can be fully and sustainably enforced.

The current access code will stop working once the access card system begins operation (go-live date is Monday, 9 February).

The initial cost of the card is $100 deposit, refundable upon return and cessation of service.

Access cards are available for purchase from Friday, 16 January, and can be paid for by phone (card posted to you) or in person at the Cooma SMRC office (collect card on the spot).

Each household is limited to one card to help ensure cards are only used by paying community members. If the property is approved as a dual occupancy, and there are two certified dwellings on the property, households may receive two cards. Both dwellings will need to pay the annual BoB levy.

The opening hours of the service will remain the same from 8am - 6pm. In the future, SMRC may adjust the hours based on community feedback and EPA approval.

SMRC has asked for the co-operation of Michelago BoB users to help reduce the level of noise generated by this facility.

If noise pollution is not reduced, the EPA may order that the Michelago BoB close.

“The closure of the BoB service will affect more than 100 residents in the Michelago region,” Cr Higgins said.

Last year the BoB required repairs and the facility was shut for months due to extensive vandalism and resulting public safety concerns.

Following the re-opening, patrons were asked to be courteous and mindful of neighbouring homes, and to limit noise and disturbance as much as possible when accessing the BoB.

Once the new changes are implemented next month council asks that residents park off Burra Road, on the north side of the shed only, do not park on the Ryrie Sreet side.