Gatineau set to rein in donation bins

In its ongoing battle against the spread of unsightly clothing donation bins, the City of Gatineauis poised to set new rules aimed at limiting their proliferation.

Charities in the city have complained about for-profit binssiphoning clothes from undiscerning donors, as well as the loose rules surrounding the bins.

The new rules make it clear: no more for-profit bins in the city, and non-profits will only be allowed three bins per property.

Those charities that want to place bins on city property would need prior approval and a $60 permit, to be reviewed annually.

Eyeing spring

"It makes sense to reserve the market for Gatineau non-profit organizations, people who are involved in the community and give back to the community," said Plateau Coun.Maude Marquis-Bissonnette in a French interview with Radio-Canada.

"What we wanted was get everything in place by spring because that's the most lucrative time for these companies,"said Parc-de-la-Montagne-Saint-Raymond Coun. Louise Boudrias.

A city committee approved the new rules Thursday. Gatineau city council must still give its OK before the rules can come into effect.

If approved, the rules would come into effect by the end of March.