PLEASANT GROVE -- Because of confusion and concerns from citizens about the city's new recycling program, the Pleasant Grove City Council agreed this week to delay the program's start date and to increase the opt-out time period by 90 days. The delay will allow the city to advertise and educate the public and allow the council to further discuss the program and its stipulations.

Originally, the curbside recycling program was set to begin in January. Residents were given until Nov. 16 to opt out of the program by going into City Hall and filling out an "Opt Out" form. Those who had not opted out by that date would be charged $5.90 each month for the service. There would be no more chances to opt out and people moving into the city would not have the option of opting out.

However, council members have heard complaints about the program.

"There are two issues that have come up," said Councilwoman Cindy Boyd. Those issues are that people cannot opt out after the deadline and that new residents cannot opt out at all.

Another problem is that many residents have not yet heard that the city is beginning a recycling program, despite articles in the newspaper, information on the city's Web site and in the city's newsletter. One resident at the meeting told the council that she had just heard about it two days earlier.

"I don't care for the January start date," said Mayor Michael Daniels. "It's a good idea to spend more time, even a few months to reach everyone."

Council members agreed that they do not want to postpone the program indefinitely, but want to spend more time reaching the public. They also want to study and discuss the issue further during work sessions. "Maybe invite a cross-section of citizens, some who have opted out," Daniels said. Nine hundred people have already opted out of the program.

According to City Administrator Frank Mills, there will be no cost to the city for delaying the program. "Allied Waste has indicated the cost will be the same unless fuel greatly increases," he said.

The new opt-out deadline is now set for Feb. 16. Until then, city leaders will discuss the matter while seeking input from residents. They will also continue to advertise in order to reach everyone, including a possible calling tree. For more information about the program, visit www.plgrove.org.