Dear Editor:
I have made my share of jokes about the Jefferson City trash program implemented in November 2009. I loved that I had to go outside in the rain to read the rules about what went into each bin, because the list was permanently attached to the lid instead of provided on a magnet that I could put on my refrigerator.
Having said that, I will vote no on Proposition A on April 5 and I encourage other voters to do likewise. No city trash hauling plan is perfect. No plan will satisfy everyone as to cost or requirements. But the current city plan is reasonably priced, as attested by many letters to the editor of late from people who have lived elsewhere. The recycling plan is workable - even an "old dog" like me has been able to learn some "new tricks" and sort the paper and plastic from the rest, which is reducing our city's landfill needs. That benefits all of us. In addition, illegal dumping of trash into other people's (and businesses') dumpsters has been significantly reduced.
The city has a legally binding contract with Allied Waste. I believe it would be irresponsible of us to override the decision of our elected officials and put the city, and we as citizens, at risk of unnecessary litigation over the breach of this contract. The City Council and the city's professional staff have done the hard work of balancing the interests and have developed a system that works, although it may not seem perfect to each of us. No law ever will.
I encourage the citizens of Jefferson City to vote on April 5, and to vote no on Proposition A.