Recycling Thefts Linked to Poverty in Santa Monica
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Regarding the theft of recyclables and their plastic containers from the city of Santa Monica (Times, Oct. 18):
1. There are many needy and homeless persons stealing recyclables.
2. Recycling containers cost the city money.
3. Residents dislike sorting their garbage; in fact, a Los Angeles mayoral election once turned on letting residents quit sorting.
4. Prosecuting and fining a homeless or indigent person for stealing cans and bottles is a waste of police time and money. No fines will ever be paid, and why jail these people?
Adding these facts together gives us a simple solution: Let all the recyclables, paper, plastic, cans, and glass be put in one container, and “real” garbage in another. Hire as many of the needy as possible at minimum wage to sort through the recyclable material. Don’t prosecute these people; give them jobs.
MICHELE RICO, Hollywood
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