Letter to the Editor: Kicking the ‘can’
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It's been said "The can has been kicked down the road too long." Now the can will hold 96 gallons and i120s being kicked down a longer road. In five years the sanitation problem will resurface.
The majority of Parkersburg City Council looked like they were not paying attention to the public forum. One actually spent most of his time looking at the slide show on the wall behind him.
Only three council members voted to postpone the ordinance to sign a contract after listening to the public input, attending meetings and receiving phone calls. There were many valid reasons to postpone and reconsider the Waste Management contract.
Waste Management will take care of city trash and city events. I didn't hear about a charge for that service. Companies can't afford to do extra service for free. So I assume Waste Management has figured that cost into the figure each household will be paying for trash pick up. The company is here to make money. In a year we will be paying the same to outside contractors for less service. There was one contract for waste and recycling together for a lower price than the one which was just approved. This was found not acceptable since "people should not have to pay for something they don't use " i.e. recycling". There are many things we pay for that not everyone uses. School, bus and other levies are passed, which are paid by all but are not used by all.
Just like the pavilion in the park. Why was this problem left to deteriorate until it had to be dismantled? This seems to be the norm.
Please do not forget when it is time to elect new representatives in three years. It will be a major problem for those who choose to run for mayor and council. There will be a new mayor for sure but l urge you to remember those who listen to the people and those who do not when it is time to elect a new council.
Cathy Whitlatch
Parkersburg