(Photo Illustration - MetroCreativeConnection - Letter to the Editor)

Recent public discourse surrounding the closure of the recycling drop‒off bins at the Parkersburg Recycling Center has unfortunately been marked by misinformation. It is important to clearly and unequivocally set the record straight: tThe Wood County Solid Waste Authority (WCSWA) did not operate, manage, or control the recycling center or its drop‒off location at any time.

Assigning responsibility to the WCSWA for the closure of these bins is not only inaccurate — it diverts attention from the actual decisions that led to this outcome. The closure of the drop‒off site is directly tied to the City of Parkersburg leadership’s decision to pursue privatization of curbside recycling services. That policy direction, not any action or inaction by the WCSWA, resulted in the discontinuation of public drop‒off recycling at that location.

Equally concerning is the fact that at no point was the WCSWA notified in advance of the pending closure, nor were we asked by city leadership to help identify solutions that might have allowed recycling operations to continue. A collaborative approach could have explored alternatives and potentially preserved this valuable community service. That opportunity was never extended.

While the Authority did not operate the facility, it has consistently demonstrated strong support for recycling efforts in our community. Over the years, the WCSWA has provided more than $150,000 in grant funding to the recycling center, helping supply critical equipment and essential materials to sustain operations. This level of investment reflects an ongoing and genuine commitment to promoting recycling and environmental responsibility throughout Wood County.

It is both unfair and counterproductive to mischaracterize the WCSWA’s role. Public understanding — and any path forward — must be grounded in facts, not assumptions. Meaningful solutions require honest accountability and a willingness to engage all stakeholders openly and transparently.

The residents of Parkersburg and Wood County deserve clarity, not misplaced blame. The WCSWA remains committed to supporting responsible waste management and advancing recycling opportunities whenever and wherever possible. However, it should not be held responsible for decisions made entirely outside its authority or control.

Wood County Solid Waste Authority

Board of Directors