JEFFERSON PARISH, La. (WGNO) — Curbside recycling in Unincorporated Jefferson Parish is a hot-button issue. It would have been a $6.1 million deal that would distribute 66,000 bins to the entire parish. But on Wednesday, that motion failed.
Several council members said the program is underutilized, and as a result, is not cost-effective.
“I just can’t, in good conscience, impose this fee on our citizens. For $6 million a year, we’re going to recycle 1% of our waste stream or less. Let that sink in,” said Councilman Deano Bonano.
“I just don’t know if my district can bear the cost and what I feel is almost an unfair application to them,” said Councilwoman Arita Bohannan.
The motion failed 4-3. Councilwoman Jennifer Van Vrancken hopes talks about a subscription or opt-in service can happen with Ramelli Waste LLC.
“What we don’t want to do right now is lose all ability to recycle the trash that if it isn’t recycled, will wind up in our environment. All of these things are important too and part of a progressive community,” said Vrancken.
Officials said just 30% of the parish recycles. A Gretna resident said he agrees with the council’s decision.
“If you’re not recycling, why should you have to pay? I think it’s wrong, but if you recycle, you know, got to do what you got to do. That’s all to it,” said a resident.
However, parish leaders said the door is not completely closed on recycling.
“What we would probably want is 90 days so we can explore options, which gives us time to look at other communities that have subscription services,” said Public Works Director Marks Drewes.
Since the motion failed, the David Drive and Lapalco Boulevard drop-off sites will not reopen to residents.
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