PVA Working Groups

Recycling is as inconvenient as going to the supermarket, getting gasoline and brushing teeth. But it is just as important. Our nature is not infinite, even though we in Las Cruces—surrounded by a vast desert—might think otherwise.

Recently the City of Las Cruces has decided to establish a committee that will explore possibilities for a curbside recycling in Las Cruces. This committee will study potential cooperation with other municipalities in New Mexico or with El Paso. It will also analyze how other cities of similar size and affluence as Las Cruces have set up their curbside recycling programs. Furthermore, the committee will research opportunities to receive grants or other kinds of assistance from the State of New Mexico. In short, this committee will find the best way for Las Cruces to set up a good and efficient curbside recycling program. The City of Las Cruces is now in the process of setting up the committee.

Recycling is not only about profit and business. For some values we simply have to pay. Nevertheless, we will all be thankful if we can achieve a curbside recycling program that at least breaks even, and that does not require an additional solid waste fee from residents, or if it does, then only a mere dollar or two.

If you have any ideas, if you know of or have lived in any city that is similar to Las Cruces and has a curbside recycling program, you are most WELCOME to send an e-mail to brshines@hotmail.com.

Finally, thank you all for your support! Your e-mails and calls, your attendance at City Council meetings, work sessions, and public hearings have made it possible that this process is not over yet. In fact, because of your support it seems that we truly have a chance to implement a great curbside recycling program. Please continue giving your support to this endeavor!

Links that address curbside recycling

http://www.las-cruces.org/utilities

http://www.cabq.gov/solidwaste/recycle.html

http://www.nmrecycle.org

http://www.epa.gov