Dear editor,
Since the alternative approval process (AAP) results were announced on the recycling and garbage roadside pickup in the rural areas, each of us have been contacted by many residents – some disappointed, and some happy with the outcomes.
LETTER – Comox Valley Regional District directors should resign in light of AAP response
It would be great if we could just move on from this, but long-term the problem of the poor recycling performance in the rural areas compared to the Comox Valley municipalities will not go away magically, and is costing us all. Universal roadside pickup is one of the most affordable solutions around the world to improve waste management and recycling outcomes.
In the coming months, we may revisit our proposal and put the question on the municipal election ballot so everyone can weigh in. Or we may consider other policies such as more education; enhanced regulations; or staffed rural depots (which likely would be more expensive than roadside pickup).
Most importantly, we are committed to keep engaging rural residents on how to solve the actual problem, rather than turn our backs to it and pretend it doesn’t exist. Thanks to everyone working with us towards a Zero Waste future.
Daniel Arbour, Arzeena Hamir, and Edwin Grieve,
Comox Valley Regional District rural directors