Decorah's redemption center will stay open--at least for awhile

Martin Redemption Center in Decorah has decided to stay open at least until May 1st.

Owners Kelley and Tina Martin are crediting a new business policy for their change-of-heart.  The business, located on the east end of Water Street in the former Cow Palace building, has initiated a new system that has been well received by its customers.  Say the Martins, "Since near 80 percent of the volume of containers brought to us contain at least a few non-returnable containers that we have to spend time sorting out and disposing of, we now charge a penny per container sorting fee.  We also ask patrons to leave their containers for us to process and return a week later for their money. People who want to receive their full 5 cents may count their own containers onto flats and sort out non-redeemables themselves."

Martin Redemption is the only dedicated redemption center in Decorah.  However, all businesses that sell redeemable containers are required by state law to accept the returns of the containers.  They are allowed to put restrictions on how and when they accept the returnables.

Martin Redemption says anyone who is not comfortable with the business' new system should return their containers at the place they bought them.from.