A recycling report presented to Williamsburg County Council was short on information but it wasn't because the committee wasn't doing their part. Recycling Advisory Board Chair Beth Tisdale presented council with an update during their September 19, meeting.

The committee is comprised of members chosen by each district councilperson and led by Councilwoman Jeannie Brown-Burrows. The group has been meeting for several months. The purpose of the committee is to find sustainable, viable ways to recycle.

Tisdale said committee members have visited recycling centers outside the county, heard from specialists in the field and conducted much research. As a result, Tisdale said they have come up with many good ideas. “We feel that by recycling, we can cut the waste hauled, thereby reducing that expense as well as make a little money by selling these materials to the highest bidder," said Tisdale.

She explained the board's goals are to educate the citizens through schools, churches, community groups and media. In addition, the board would like to see an expansion of recyclable materials and recommend a partnering with other counties who may be better equipped at handling certain materials, such as plastic until our own facilities are able to provide the service.

However, the group’s hands are tied. Tisdale said in order for their goals to be met they need pertinent information; however, information has not been forthcoming. "We have requested a report on the expense of hauling, tipping fees, etc., as well as expense incurred and income received from current recycling," said Tisdale. "This information is vital to our mission. We are still waiting on that report." Tisdale said the information would help ascertain which materials should be focused on to bring the greatest gain to the county. "We need this report to fill in the blanks in order to make educated recommendations to council," said Tisdale. "We look forward to getting this information so that we can do the job each of you has called on us to do." She added that they have reached out to the community who has shown an interest in the endeavor and a commitment to see it succeed.

Williamsburg County Supervisor Stanley Pasley said they are aware of the board's requests and have all intentions to provide the information. "We are completing our year-end financial closings and accruals," said Pasley. "This is something that is required and a process that normally takes place in the first quarter of the new fiscal year. We want to make sure we provide the committee with accurate and precise information."