Vernon residents voice concerns about recycling fraud and community treatment

The Vernon Town Council meeting on June 17, 2025, highlighted several pressing community concerns, including issues with local redemption centers and ongoing public safety matters.

During the public comment section, residents expressed frustration over the operation of redemption centers in Vernon. One resident, Gennaro, raised concerns about out-of-state individuals taking advantage of Connecticut's bottle deposit system. He argued that people from states like Massachusetts and Rhode Island are cashing in bottles at a higher rate than local residents, which he described as unfair and potentially illegal. Gennaro emphasized that this practice undermines the efforts of local residents who pay a 10-cent deposit per can, while others profit from the system without contributing to the local economy. He called for action to address this issue, stating that it feels like theft from the community.

Another resident, Tom Cancero, reported ongoing problems with the elevators at Court Towers, noting they have been out of service frequently. He also recounted witnessing a police incident that raised concerns about public safety in the area.

The meeting also included a procedural discussion regarding the election of a new mayor pro tempore, with Laura Bush being nominated for the position. There was a proposal to nominate Mary Anne Levesque as mayor, indicating a shift in leadership dynamics within the council.

Overall, the meeting underscored significant community concerns about local governance, public safety, and the economic impact of state policies on residents. The council's response to these issues will be crucial in addressing the residents' needs and maintaining community trust.