Fairbanks officials want to see more recycling and less trash.

Mayor Jim Whitaker and Borough Assembly member Mike Musick have
lined up a plan to pay people or groups who recycle paper, plastics, glass and other materials before they reach the landfill.

Assembly member Nadine Winters wants to charge big chain stores,
such as Fred Meyer and Wal-Mart, 5 cents for each disposable plastic bag given to customers. The money would fund recycling programs and encourage residents to shop with reusable bags.

The Fairbanks Daily News-Miner reports the recycling and bag tax
proposals are being advanced side by side.

The Borough Assembly has scheduled public hearings Sept. 10 on the plans.