Avalon Council has approved the first two readings of an ordinance that will authorize a new, five-year contract with Waste Management for garbage and recycling collection.

Borough officials unanimously agreed to accept the “e-waste” option that will add just under $1 per month to property owners’ garbage bills, but will provide collection of a number of hard-to-dispose-of items now considered “eligible” waste. These items include everything from automotive and household chemicals to electronic equipment. Borough manager Harry Dilmore said that Waste Management even will provide locked disposal boxes for people who need to throw away medicines or used syringes.

Dilmore said the additional service will be offered to Avalon residents beginning in 2012, but will become mandatory for municipalities to provide in 2013.

The annual garbage fee for Avalon residents will be $187.80. Dilmore said the cost will increase a maximum of $24 per year over the five-year term on the contract.