Centreville Town Council has introduced an ordinance to phase out single-use plastic bags in favor of reusable ones, known as the “Bring Your Own Bag” initiative. The ordinance includes a 10-cent fee for paper bags, but some businesses express concern about including the fee on receipts. The idea is to encourage people to bring their own bags to reduce plastic waste.
The proposed implementation date is November 1st, 2023. Eleven Maryland counties and cities have already passed similar legislation, and eight more are working on it. Local environmental group “Plastic-Free Centreville” has compiled a list of 100 businesses supporting the ban. The president of the League of Women Voters, Pat Jamison, commended the Town Council for addressing plastic waste.
Some small business owners are concerned about the impact on their operations, but the majority of Centreville’s residents and businesses are embracing the change. The Town Council is willing to be flexible on the fee and is open to discussing alternative incentives to encourage people to bring their own bags. They’re also considering changes to the ordinance before its implementation.
A public hearing will be scheduled to discuss the ordinance and potential changes further. Local businesses, such as opco Galleria, have expressed their willingness to adapt and find ways to cover the fee without displaying it on receipts. The council will explore different approaches, such as graduated scenarios and possible exemptions for smaller businesses with less advanced technology. A Public hearing on the bill is scheduled for June.
Centreville Volunteer Trail Patrol
In a collaborative effort led by Fred McNeil, Bill Moore, and several other community members, a volunteer-based trail patrol initiative is being proposed for the town. The proposal aims to promote safety and goodwill among the community while also providing assistance to trail users.
Inspired by the success of the Can Island trail system’s volunteer patrol, the proposed model will rely on volunteers who will patrol designated trails on bicycles. The trail patrol will assist with minor issues, such as flat tires, chain fixes, or providing directions to nearby amenities. They will also serve as additional eyes and ears for the local authorities, reporting any concerns or incidents they may encounter.
It is essential to note that the volunteer patrol will not serve as an extension of the police department. They will not have arrest authority or carry any weapons, and their primary role will be to promote safety and provide assistance where needed. All volunteers will be certified in first aid and CPR and be equipped with maps and information to help trail users.
The volunteer patrol initiative has already gained the support of the local police chief and has begun recruiting volunteers. The proposal emphasizes minimal costs, with volunteers providing their own bicycles and the town offering resources such as t-shirts, identification badges, and other promotional materials.
The town’s endorsement of this proposal will foster goodwill and a sense of community among its residents. By working together, citizens can play an active role in ensuring the safety and well-being of all who use the trails, ultimately making the town a more welcoming and enjoyable place to live, work, and visit.
As the town board deliberates on this proposal, it is clear that the volunteer trail patrol initiative offers numerous benefits, from promoting safety and assistance to fostering community spirit. With a resounding consensus in favor of the proposal, the town eagerly awaits the official launch of this innovative and collaborative program.
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