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Petersburg council opens hearing on 5¢ disposable-bag tax, then tables measure for more public outreach
Summary
Council held a public hearing on a proposed 5¢ local disposable plastic bag tax intended for litter reduction and environmental programs; after extensive public comment the council voted to table the ordinance for further discussion and outreach.
City staff presented an ordinance to amend chapter 106 to add article 13, a local 5¢ disposable plastic bag tax intended to reduce litter and fund environmental cleanup, education and reusable bags. Staff noted the ordinance would require certification from the Virginia Tax Commissioner and would become effective 95 days after council approval.
Residents offered a range of responses at the public hearing. Dr. Kenneth Lewis asked, ‘‘What happens to that 5¢? How is it used to improve the waste management...?’’ and raised questions about application and distribution of funds. Several speakers warned of impacts on low-income and senior households; others supported the idea as a behavior-change and education tool. City attorney/staff cited state code language that specifies allowable uses: ‘‘environmental cleanup, providing education programs designed to reduce environmental waste, mitigating pollution and litter, or providing reusable bags.’’
After the public hearing, Councilor Westbrook (the item sponsor) reiterated support for the proposal and described business and SNAP accommodations. Vice Mayor Hill moved to table the item to allow additional public discussion and follow-up with the Commissioner of Revenue; the motion carried by roll call. Council signaled plans for further outreach, additional details on implementation and possible return to council in January.
