Calgary's city council has sent a proposed curbside-pickup recycling program back to administrators for more review.

The garbage, recyclables and organic-waste pickup would have cost each residential homeowner about $21 a month, on top of the property tax that currently covers garbage services.

Calgary residents can currently take many recyclable products to neighbourhood green bins for free.
(CBC News)

Mayor Dave Bronconnier, anticipating hours of debate on the program and a proposal to put it to a plebiscite, quickly suggested Monday morning that it be sent back to administration for more work.

"You can't solve all the problems in one fell swoop," he said.

'I think $21 was a big surprise'

Even the most vocal supporter of the plan, Ald. Druh Farrell, voted to send the plan back, but she said she isn't giving up on the idea.

"I'll support it. I tell you, I'm not leaving office until we have curbside recycling, unless I am removed."

Farrell said it's clear cost has become a big factor.

"People I think would love to have it for free. It can't be, but I think $21 was a big surprise to them and so we've got a lot of work to do."

A report from the city's administration, which is expected to include costs per option, is to return to council next month.

Calgary residents can currently take many recyclable products to neighbourhood green bins for free.

Aldermen who supported the idea of curbside recycling said Calgary is far behind other municipalities when it comes to recycling, with too many recyclables and too much organic waste going into landfills.

Others were concerned the price was too steep for seniors and single-income families.