Fernanda Marx

Management Analyst

Albert Carbon, PE

Public Works Director

Legislative Action - On October 2, 2019, the City Commission passed the ordinance by a vote of 4-1.  Attached is the ordinance to be considered on second reading following a public hearing.

Issue Statement: Discarded plastic straws pose a great threat to the environment, especially marine life. Reducing the distribution of plastic straws will reduce plastic waste that may end up in our environment. Local cities such as Fort Lauderdale, Deerfield Beach, Hallandale Beach, and Delray Beach have moved forward on ordinances limiting and/or prohibiting the use of plastic straws.

Recommended Action: City Commission adopt an ordinance amending Chapter 8, Miscellaneous Offenses and Provisions, of the Code of Ordinances by creating an Article IX, to prohibit the sale and distribution of plastic straws, except as otherwise provided.

History: City Commission approved the Climate Action Plan (CAP) during the January 23, 2019 Commission meeting. This item is part of the CAP:

Goal 6: Public Policy Advocacy, Strategy PP–1: Climate-conscious government action.

The City is committed to environmental protection and stewardship, and finds that it is in the best interest, safety, and welfare of the citizens and businesses to reduce litter and pollutants on the lands and in the surrounding waterways of the City.

Following adoption of the Ordinance, the City will engage in public education efforts for a period of six (6) months. Following the successful completion of the public education efforts, no commercial establishment shall distribute plastic straws except upon a customer’s specific request.