The Park Ridge City Council is on the verge of implementing a ban on plastic grocery bags at large retail stores, with a decision expected in March 2024. During a recent Committee of the Whole meeting, city leaders revisited the proposal, indicating a consensus to prohibit single-use plastic bags at establishments that measure 7,500 square feet or larger. This initiative aims to address environmental concerns and reduce plastic waste in the community.
Several residents expressed their support for the ban during the public comment segment of the meeting. The proposed ban, which has been under discussion since late summer 2023, would impact around nine stores in Park Ridge, including major grocery retailers, as well as Walgreens, Ace Hardware, and Wheel and Sprocket. Notably, the ban would not extend to deli or produce bags, nor would it affect paper bags.
City officials reported outreach efforts to major supermarket chains, though they received no responses. Smaller stores, however, have shown interest in supporting the ban. City planner John Scopelliti noted that some retailers requested a rollout period of up to six months, a proposal that city council members appeared willing to consider.
Lauren Rapisand, a member of the council, advocated for the ban while emphasizing the need for a comprehensive citywide education campaign. “The ordinance basically prohibits plastic bags; it does not charge a fee,” explained Drew Awsumb, Community Preservation and Development Director. He pointed out that introducing a fee for plastic bags complicated the matter, and transitioning to paper bags seemed a more straightforward solution for retailers.
Residents shared personal experiences regarding plastic bag bans in other areas. Kelly Delaney, who relocated to Park Ridge in 2023 from New York City, reflected on the positive impact of the ban there. “Plastic bags feel like a relic, especially in a town that is so environmentally conscious,” she noted, highlighting her belief in the benefits of such a change.
The city’s Sustainability Commission chair, Andrea Cline, supported the initiative, stressing the pervasive issue of plastic pollution. “Plastic is found in every part of the world and every part of the body including in our brains,” Cline stated. She underscored the health risks associated with plastic waste and urged council members to approve the ban.
Alderman Joseph Steinfels requested that the council review the ordinance text for the proposed ban, suggesting that the focus initially remain on larger stores while leaving restaurants out of the discussion for now. He expressed hope that restaurants could be included in future considerations.
As the council prepares to make its decision next month, the outcome of the proposed plastic bag ban has the potential to significantly impact environmental practices within Park Ridge, aligning with broader trends toward sustainability across many communities.
