North Myrtle Beach to postpone ban on plastic bags due to the coronavirus outbreak
A measure that would have placed a ban on plastic bags in North Myrtle Beach could go into effect in 2022, one year after which it was originally scheduled.
Officials believe the decision to halt implementing the ban would provide economic relief to businesses impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. The spread of COVID-19 has recently called for several businesses deemed non-essential and dine-in restaurants within city limits to shutter.
The ordinance that will push the ban’s implementation to January 2022 received unanimous first reading approval during City Council’s virtual meeting held Monday night. The original draft of the ordinance called for the ban to be pushed to 2023, but officials agreed one year was enough time for businesses to recover.
“This needs to be implemented, but under circumstances right now we have to do things that are very unusual,” Councilman J.O. Baldwin said. “Even if we had to extend it again, we could, but I think a year is way more than enough time to regroup and come back together and let everyone know and make sure we get it done.”
Councilman Bob Cavanaugh agreed, adding that while some environmental agencies will be disappointed, he hopes the community can understand council’s decision. This has been a very unusual year, he said, explaining that while the need is there, it isn’t the right time for a plastic ban.
However, several members of the public issued grievance with council’s decision, urging the need for environmental activism and protections, despite the current health crisis. Many also cited that local businesses have already prepared to transition to reusable bags.
North Myrtle Beach Mayor Marilyn Hatley urged businesses that have prepared to eliminate its plastic bags to follow through on the ban despite council’s decision, noting the vote was made for those currently struggling financially.
“If you have planned to do away with plastic bags, then do it,” Hatley said. “There are businesses that have not prepared yet, they’re struggling financially and to be honest, the bags at their business is the least of their worries at this time. We are giving them an opportunity to have some extra time to get prepared.”
City officials originally approved the initial ban last April, with the measure to go into effect January 2021, giving retailers time to expend their current stock of plastic bags and transition to alternative products, like reusable and recyclable bags, or compost options.
The ban calls for certain stores, such as groceries and food markets, convenience stores, and restaurants to forgo single-use carry out plastic out plastic bags and utilize more environmentally friendly bags. An exemption will be made for plastic bags used for meat and produce, dry cleaners and newspapers. Bags of prescription drugs, garbage bags, and yard and pet waste will also be exempt.
This story was originally published April 20, 2020 at 8:13 PM.
