During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the future of recycling in Kingston and the potential acquisition of a property that could play a crucial role in the town's waste management strategy. Concerns were raised about the financial implications of the current recycling program, which is reportedly costing the town approximately $250,000 annually.
One official highlighted the challenges of encouraging residents to recycle, noting that many find it easier to dispose of items in their curbside trash rather than driving to a recycling center. The discussion emphasized the need for a more effective recycling strategy, as the current system is not only costly but also underutilized.
The town has been approached regarding the purchase of a property that could serve as a recycling center, but officials noted that they have yet to receive a response about the potential sale. The property’s location is seen as advantageous due to its visibility and accessibility, but the committee acknowledged that significant investment in time and resources would be necessary to revitalize the recycling program.
Additionally, the solid waste committee is facing a shortage of members, with recent resignations leaving only a few active participants. This has raised concerns about the committee's ability to effectively manage waste and recycling initiatives moving forward. Officials stressed the importance of recruiting new members to ensure the committee can operate effectively and address the growing waste disposal challenges facing the town.
The meeting concluded with a call for a public forum to engage the community in discussions about recycling and waste management, emphasizing the urgency of making decisions that will shape the town's approach to these critical issues in the coming years.