Montague wants ugly garbage bins out of sight

The Town of Montague, P.E.I., may soon be telling residents to move their garbage bins out of their front yards.

Montague is in the middle of updating their official plan and zoning bylaws, and is working with consultants from the firm Stantec.

Several recommendations have been made, including the one about garbage bins.

The consultants suggest the large waste bins be stored beside or at the back of homes or behind screening if it's in the front.

The idea came from town officials after hearing complaints about unsightly bins.

Resident Earl Fraser says he understands where the frustration is coming from.

"I'm pretty sure most people in the town would know where those bins are," he said. "They're always out on the sidewalk and they are always kind of messylooking."

He's in favour of the idea, but did point out some seasonal issues.

"I think when the weather is suitable they should be put to the side," said Fraser. "My concern would be in the winter. As long as where you could store them wouldn't be too covered by snow easy accessibility would be my biggest thing. But I have no problems with keeping the town looking good by moving the bins back."

Betty Rice, visiting from Souris, doesn't agree, and thinks people from Montague should be able to make their own choice about where to put their garbage bins.

"I guess it's their own opinion what they want to do, it's only a garbage bin," she said. "As long as it's not overflowing and making a mess it shouldn't be any difference. Yes, sure, decide on your own."

A public meeting held Wednesday, with 14 people in attendance,saw a mostly positive response to the proposal.