THOUSAND OAKS : Talking Kiosk Offers Facts on Toxic Waste

What’s the best way to dispose of hazardous household products? What toxic chemical is contained in latex paint? Where do contaminants go when they’re flushed down a storm drain?

Just ask the friendly talking kiosk on display at Thousand Oaks City Hall.

The kiosk, with its interactive software and full-color graphic displays, reacts to a light touch on its notebook-sized screen. It offers a quiz on household hazardous waste, short narratives describing Ventura County’s efforts to safely dispose of toxic substances and other information on hazardous materials.

In its first week in Thousand Oaks, the display has attracted dozens of students, who listen and learn as their parents conduct city business at nearby offices.

“There are a number of misconceptions concerning household hazardous waste, and this provides an enjoyable way to learn about it,” said Grahame Watts, the city’s recycling coordinator.

The talking computer has arrived in time for the city’s annual Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day, which will take place from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 16.

To dispose of paint, oil, pesticides, batteries and pool chemicals on collection day, residents must make appointments through the recycling hot line, 496-8679, or City Hall, 497-8611, Ext. 339.

After a six-week stint in Thousand Oaks, the hazardous waste kiosk will rotate to other Ventura County cities and may put in guest appearances at Earth Day celebrations.

The county paid for the $10,300 kiosk using money collected from garbage hauling fees in unincorporated areas, said Mark Delin, a waste management analyst with Ventura County.