To the editor:

Thanks to the Journal-World for its belated announcement that the only full-scale recycling facility in Lawrence is closed. Perhaps a bit of forewarning would better serve readers in the future.

Sadly, the recycling facility’s closure to allow for Wal-Mart expansion is a perfect example of how the private sector will always choose profit over public service.

While Wal-Mart provides recycling space to appease Lawrence “greens,” the corporate giant failed to make plans to maintain the community’s recycling center, and now the doors are closed until September. That oversight shows that Wal-Mart’s commitment to recycling is about as strong as its dedication to buying American products.

With no recycling center, that means nearly two months of tossing glass into the landfill, not to mention office paper, etc., which can’t be collected at the city-provided cardboard and newspaper bins.

This is a prime example of why the city should take the lead to consolidate and expand recycling efforts and not rely on the private sector – especially not Wal-Mart – to provide a critical public service.

Come on, Lawrence City Commission, step up to the plate and take over the recycling business. Our community will be a better place as a result, and we can stop relying on Wal-Mart to handle our environmental future.

Jason Harmon,

Lawrence