Mandatory Recycling - or canning the can in the can

Key West is currently in the midst of a Commission decision-making process about a mandatory recycling ordinance. It has passed the first reading 4-3, but faces some obstacles for the second reading. The main complaint is with the "mandatory" language, which would eventually lead to potential fines for those who do not recycle.

The arguments have been pure Libertarian in nature: don't make us do anything, use education instead of fines, and most of all, respect that there is a Key West way of doing things and that is not by making it mandatory.

In response, I helped our Social Concerns Committee write a letter to the Commission to be read in the public hearing before the second reading of the Ordinance. Here is what I said:

"As you continue to wrestle with the issue of recycling in Key West and approach your vote on the second reading of the proposed ordinance for mandatory recycling, we hope that these thoughts might help you vote “Yes.”

"Governments are created to serve the common good. That good includes not only the protection of individual rights but also the protection of the collective health and welfare.

"The great Magna Carta, cornerstone of western liberty, was initially signed in 1215. However, the version we know now was codified in 1297. It is significant that in 1297, this basis for so many of our rights was formally enacted AND a bill mandating collection of refuse was also enacted. In the Common Law tradition we have over 700 years of understanding that mandating action in the common good is not an infringement on people’s rights.

"In the City of Key West, where many cosmetic actions are mandated (the precise colors allowed for doors and trim in the historic area) and many petty actions are equally mandated (removal of holiday lights by January 10), it would seem the height of hypocrisy to conclude that making recycling mandatory would be contrary to the spirit of Key West. If anything, protecting the future of our island for generations to come by thoughtful and forceful action would seem imperative.

"Please, take recycling as seriously as you do parking regulations and electric car rental solicitations. Vote “Yes” at the second reading."