SNOW HILL - Single-stream recycling programs that emphasize the collection of cans, bottles, cardboard, paper and other items are becoming the norm in North Carolina communities.

Greene County is next in line.

The Board of Commissioners unanimously adopted a "Recycle Right NC" proclamation that supports a campaign re-commitment to recycling within the county's small communities Monday evening.

The cost-effective measure hopes to decrease the amounts of non-recyclable items, or contaminants, from being placed in recycling bins that compromise the quality of truly recyclable materials. It also creates safety hazards for the employees at the materials recovery facility where recyclables are sorted.

Greene County currently places all of its recyclables such as glass, plastic bottles/dishware, cardboard, etc. into one bin and garbage bags into another bin at the landfill. The materials are distributed and separated at other sites.

"It's costing to recycle now. A lot of the small towns do not have the budget to pay for fees and recycling programs," said David Jones, public works director for Greene County. "They've stopped. In my opinion, that's what prompted the state to come up with this program right here. They're trying to get those people back in it, trying to get everybody to do single-stream recycling.

"[That's] what we do in our convenience sites."

Commissioner Susan Blizzard asked how recycling could be promoted within the communities. She assumed the current recycling center was separating materials.

Jones said "no."

Blizzard asked about distributing pamphlets to promote better recycling.

Jones countered that it would cost money to print the material. Greene County Manager Kyle DeHaven said publicizing through social media, websites and radio/news advertising was a viable solution.

"Are we practicing what we're saying?" asked Commissioner Antonio Blow.

Jones said residents are recycling as much as they can. Educating them about which items go into recycling containers is the most constructive way to recover the most recyclable material and avoid contamination.

"This is trying to get people to clean up the streaming," he said.

Other agenda items:

a) The Board discussed a need to update its Mission and Vision statement, and brainstorm issues that it wants to advertise to the public that are being considered.

b) The Board tabled to continue discussion on a policy regarding how service organizations can request county funding at its next meeting.

c) County Manager Kyle DeHaven presented more changes in a proposed personnel policy.

d) The Board unanimously passed 5-0 to approve a budget ordinance amendment and rate schedule amendment that follows the law for services rendered by the health department.

e) Dr. Ivey Smith presented a proposed revision to the Animal Control Ordinance and how they will benefit the county. The annual advisory board has worked on the document for some time.