OLD TOWN — City officials moved a step closer to establishing a mandatory recycling program here Tuesday night.

During a public hearing on the matter, the Town Council reviewed mixed public sentiment on the program, which, if approved, would take effect as an amendment to the city code.

Some of those at the meeting questioned how officials could enforce the measure. Phil Dow, owner of the 98-unit Whim Station apartment complex, said he was concerned about how to control use of nearby dumpsters.

“It’s going to take time; it’s going to take some education,” he said.

“It’s a whole new way of living and everybody’s got to get used to it,” said Councilor Roberta Fowler, while explaining that the program will be enforceable.

Many of those who spoke at the hearing were in favor of the proposal, with one resident saying, “I think over the long haul, it’s going to benefit us all.”

Although the timetable for the program is not yet carved in stone, the City Council is scheduled to hold a second reading and vote on the proposal Oct. 1. Also, the city has applied for a grant to aid them in building the program and the recycling facility, according to City Manager David Cole.