[ back ]
Variances sought for electronic waste recycling facility
(by Sean Lehosit, staff writer - February 17, 2011)
Environmental Reclaim, has requested two zoning variances in the interest of developing an electronic waste recycling facility.
The building, 3900 Sullivant Ave., was formerly the site for the Ohio Thrift Store and another unit was a metal fabrication facility.
During the Feb. 15 Greater Hilltop Area Commission (GHAC) meeting, a recommendation was made in support of this variance by the GHAC Zoning Committee. The requested variance is necessary to allow electronic, referred to as e-waste, recycling and disposal.
“They want to convert the entire facility for use into electronic waste recycling. Computer monitors and things like that,” GHAC Vice Chairman Dave Horn said. “It could be computer monitors, it could be copiers – it could be anything that’s electrical or electronic.”
According to Horn, the GHAC feels good about this incoming business. Not only will the redevelopment spruce up the site, but the company projects the addition of 25 to 30 new job opportunities.
Environmental Reclaim would be a carry-in facility for individuals, but would primarily be through corporate contracts. According to Horn, if a company wished to dispose of old or outdated equipment in a proper, safe, and legal manner they would be able to contract with this e-waste company to do so.
“Someone would show up with a big truck full of monitors from a big corporation, and they’ll tear them up and properly dispose of things and recycle what’s usable,” Horn added.
A private citizen could dispose of their own personal electronics at the facility – like laptop computers – without having to worry about their hard drives falling into the hands of pickers or scavengers.
The GHAC will hold a hearing on Mar. 1. Taking recommendations into consideration, the final decision to approve the variances would be made by Columbus City Council.
[ back ]
