Shreveport's effort to have a meaningful recycling program has never achieved expectations from the perspective of citizen involvement. That point can not be argued.
The recycling effort does, however, extend the useful life of the city's landfill. How much is an open question.
Questions have been raised in recent years if it was time to go in another direction on the recycling program or just end it.
This issue is now front and center.
Pratt Industries is the local recycling facility. Pratt is closing its facility on Oct. 9.
The city's contract with Republic, the company that collects the recyclables, ends on that date as well.
Shreveport citizens pay a $2.50 monthly for a recycling fee. This will NOT end with the Pratt and Republic contracts.
Recycling is another one of the many "needs versus wants" decisions that impact the city budget.
The decision may be made by the marketplace.
The market for recycled products has declined and the economic reality of continuing this program is questionable.
John came to Shreveport in January of 1977 when he was transferred to Barksdale AFB.
He’s been active in Shreveport politics since deciding to make Shreveport his home.
John practiced law for 40 years and he now monitors local politics. He regularly attends Shreveport City Council and Caddo Parish Commission meetings.
John is published weekly in The Inquisitor, bi-monthly in The Forum News, and frequently in the Shreveport Times.
He enjoys addressing civic groups on local government issues and elections.