Editor:
Lately, climate change and the environment has been the major topic for citizens, media and governments alike. So I have to ask why is New Westminster City Council making it harder for local residents to do the right thing – recycle?
On Oct. 26, I was at the recycling depot getting rid of leaves and other garden materials when several people struck up a conversation about the depot closing.
Everyone is against it and while some councillors will give you a lengthy diatribe about why it’s the right thing to do, it seems what residents really want is a local facility – a community asset where, we the residents, feel welcome and part of the community we live in.
The recycling depot is more than just a depot – it is a community meeting place, a place where residents feel connected to New Westminster and a valued city asset.
What really struck me is what these folks all said they would do when the depot moves. They all said they would not drive to Coquitlam and would just throw what should be destined for the recycling depot in the garbage.
These folks were genuinely angry and disappointed. They cite time, cost of driving, lack of community and potential costs as reasons for not going to Coquitlam as well as this depot being part of “our” community. If citizens have to bear some cost of going green, then so should the city.
Sometimes politicians of all levels need to listen, truly listen, to what the community wants. If recycling and the environment matter to this city council, then the depot must remain as part of New Westminster.
Paul McNamara, New Westminster
