Recycling Program Faces Challenges with Plastic Bag Collection and Staffing Issues

Coffey County officials are tackling the growing issue of plastic waste management, particularly focusing on the challenges posed by plastic bags in the recycling process. During the recent government meeting on August 5, 2025, discussions highlighted the urgent need to find effective solutions for collecting and processing plastic bags, which have been causing significant disruptions in recycling operations.

The county has faced difficulties in selling plastics due to contamination from plastic bags, which can jam equipment during processing. As a result, local leaders are exploring options to establish a dedicated collection system for these bags to prevent them from entering the waste stream. One official noted, “We can’t have it in our waste stream that we’re bailing because when they take it to process it, those bags get caught up in equipment and cause shutdowns.”

Efforts are underway to identify potential outlets for the collected plastic bags, with officials acknowledging the need for a specialized approach rather than relying on standard transportation methods. The conversation also touched on the importance of community involvement, as residents have been trained to collect plastic bags for recycling purposes. However, there is concern that if this initiative falters, it could lead to increased plastic waste in landfills.

In addition to waste management discussions, the meeting addressed staffing challenges within the county. Officials reported difficulties in hiring, with only one application received for a recent job posting. However, they successfully filled two positions by utilizing applications from previous candidates. This staffing update is crucial as the county continues to manage its operations effectively while addressing pressing environmental concerns.

As Coffey County moves forward, the focus remains on enhancing recycling efforts and ensuring that community initiatives for plastic bag collection are sustained, ultimately aiming to reduce landfill waste and improve recycling efficiency.