Ancaster Factor

06/13/2026

Hamilton's garbage problem is bigger than most people realize.

According to recent reporting, more than half of what Hamilton residents put in their blue boxes and recycling programs ultimately ends up in landfill anyway. Many materials are contaminated, difficult to market, or simply not recyclable under current conditions.

Meanwhile, the City's only landfill at Glanbrook is already about two-thirds full, and Hamilton is projecting it could reach capacity by around 2059.

To extend the landfill's life, City Hall is considering major changes including:
• Bi-weekly garbage collection
• Increased diversion to green bin programs
• Automated cart collection
• Exploring waste-to-energy technologies

The reality is that recycling alone is not solving our waste problem. Reducing waste at the source and improving diversion rates will be critical if Hamilton hopes to avoid the enormous cost and environmental impact of finding new landfill capacity.

With Glanbrook filling up and new landfills almost impossible to approve in Ontario, Hamilton's waste strategy is becoming one of the most important environmental issues facing the city.

Were you aware that over half of Hamilton's recycling may still end up in landfill? What changes do you think the City should make?

Article from Bay Observer

06/13/2026

06/13/2026

Hamilton homeowners continue to be hit with property tax increases year after year, while many seniors and residents on fixed incomes are already struggling with the rising cost of living.

For someone who has worked their entire life, paid off their home, and retired on a fixed income, even annual tax increases of 5 or 6 per cent can create serious financial hardship. Over several years, these increases add up and can leave some residents wondering whether they will be able to afford to stay in the homes and neighbourhoods they helped build.

A home should provide security in retirement, not become a source of financial anxiety.

Councillors who supported these tax increases should be prepared to explain to residents why these costs were necessary and how they are making life more affordable for Hamilton families and seniors. If residents are not satisfied with those answers, they have the opportunity to hold elected officials accountable at the ballot box.

Hamilton needs leadership that puts affordability, fiscal responsibility, and the needs of residents first.

06/13/2026

♻️ DID YOU THINK EVERYTHING IN YOUR BLUE BOX GETS RECYCLED?

Most of us do.

The reality is more complicated.

Materials placed in a recycling bin are collected, sorted, and marketed. But when materials are contaminated, mixed together, or there is no viable market for them, some can become residue and ultimately end up in landfill.

As of January 1, 2026, Hamilton's residential Blue Box program is no longer operated by the City of Hamilton. Collection is now handled by GFL Environmental under Ontario's producer responsibility system.

That raises some important questions:

❓ What percentage of collected material actually becomes new products?

❓ What percentage is contamination?

❓ What percentage becomes residue?

❓ Where does that residue go?

❓ How much ultimately ends up in landfill?

For Ancaster residents, waste collected by GFL is transported to the Binbrook Landfill in Glanbrook Township.

This isn't about blaming recycling programs. It's about asking for transparency.

If we're being asked to sort our waste, we deserve to know what happens next.

🗳️ 2026 is an election year.

Ask every candidate:

• Where does Ancaster's waste go?
• What is the actual recycling recovery rate?
• How will landfill capacity be managed?
• What happens to materials that cannot be marketed or recovered?

Good environmental policy starts with good information.

Ask questions.
Demand transparency.
Vote informed.

06/11/2026

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06/05/2026

The 2026 Municipal Election is coming up on October 26. Make a plan to vote and help shape the future of Hamilton.

Advance voting opportunities are available throughout October. Learn more at: Hamilton.ca/Elections

06/05/2026

06/03/2026

June entertainment! 🎵
Sunday patio sessions are back! Starting June 7th at 6PM.