Yard Waste Collection Changes

Dear Councilpersons:

I was astounded to read the recent Public Works notice that garbage cans may no longer be used for yard waste. And the reason is they, "Didn't realize how many residents would use garbage cans." Is this some sort of bizarre joke? I have been a Lakewood resident for over 20 years, committed to recycling from the day I first learned of the Berea Road facility. My household rejoiced when curb pickup service service began and applauded when recycling became mandatory, despite those who found the policy heavy-handed.

Remember the fundamentals of resource conservation: REDUCE, RECYCLE, REUSE.

Where is the sense in a recycling mandate that in fact contributes to deforestation as we abandon our properly marked receptacles to instead purchase paper bags on an ongoing basis with which to gather and compost yard waste?

Consider our unemployed residents and others experiencing financial crunch. This policy will do nothing but discourage homeowners from cleaning their yards. WHat happened to 'Keeping Lakewood Beautiful?' The notice states that collecting yard waste from cans slows collection and causes employee injuries. I seriously doubt it has been any surprise to individuals hired as trash collectors that lifting cans is a component of the job. Rather, I suspect that the problem lies with an over-reduction in force. Why not rehire of those let go in the enthusiasm to make budgetary cuts last year? Obviously they are needed.

Please reconsider this new and absurd policy - a thorough violation of conservation principles. Your taxpayers deserve better. So does Mother Earth.

Sincerely,

Sharon Woznicki

Read More on Letters To The Editor
Volume 6, Issue 10, Posted 8:25 AM, 05.19.2010