RUSHCLIFFE Borough Council last night approved plans to save almost �3 million over the next five years.
It needs to balance its book after government funding cuts and low returns on investments.
Members agreed to cut �15,000 from community sports programmes next year and start charging �25 for green recycling bins and �10 for second ones.
Council leader Conservative Neil Clarke said the optional green bin fees were not proposed lightly.
He said: "This in no way diminishes the council's continued desire to encourage recycling and waste minimisation and protect the environment.
"The cabinet believes it is an important part in responding to the challenges we face."
The second home council tax discount will drop from 50 per cent to 10 per cent.
Shrub beds will be removed and litter and dog bins integrated to save �15,000.
Paid for business waste collection service will end, saving �55,000.
The savings next year total �445,000, with �670,000 used from reserves.
Council tax is to be frozen.
Liberal Democrat leader Chris Evans said he agreed with most of the budget but believed recycling bins should cost �10.
He said: "Unfortunately in one important area the cabinet got it very wrong."
He added the service reviews would bring "challenging and significant changes" to how the council ran.
The council also approved measures which would save �472,000 for each year up to 2015-16.
They include reviews of environmental health, arts and events, and building control services which the council admits is likely to reduce standards.
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