updated 1:40 p.m. Wednesday

The $2 daily fee and $25 annual fee to use the Oak Creek recycling center, instituted last year much to the dismay of users, has been officially eliminated.

During budget discussions last fall, Oak Creek aldermen and city officials proposed dropping the fee in response to numerous complaints from residents.

However, to make up for the loss of revenue, hours of operation for the recycling yard, 720 W. Puetz Road, will be trimmed.

The yard will now be open on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. During the spring and summer (April 1 through Sept. 30) hours on Tuesday will be extended from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

In addition, the city eliminated one full-time position - by not filling a position left vacant by retirement - and will use part-time help to supplement the remaining full-time staffer, according to a report to council members.

These changes allowed the city to save $68,000, which meant it could eliminate the fee.