Caldwell County Judge-Executive Kota Young, along with other judge-executives in the area, will explore potential solutions to find a new processing center for recyclables.
This decision comes after receiving notification from the West Kentucky Correctional Complex (WKCC) that they are discontinuing their processing services for recyclables.
Young tells WPKY’s News Edge that since 1993, five counties have partnered with WKCC to provide processing services for recyclable materials collected within their jurisdictions.
click to download audioHe further explained that the reason for their longstanding partnership with WKCC is due to the absence of processing facilities in the respective counties. He added by consolidating their efforts, they were able to maximize their resources and ensure efficient operations.
According to Young, they received a notification on Tuesday that the WKCC recycling program would be discontinued immediately.
click to download audioJudge Young explained that the WKCC terminated the program immediately due to serious safety concerns, particularly related to contraband, as well as a significant financial loss.
He said Caldwell County has currently suspended its recycling activities because they have nowhere to send the recyclables without a processing partner.
click to download audioYoung stated that the judge executives in the impacted counties will engage in discussions and meetings in the coming days and weeks to determine the best way to provide this service to our region.
click to download audioWhile the Caldwell County Recycling Center is temporarily closed until further notice, Judge Young confirmed that the county will proceed with its scheduled Tire Amnesty Day in the spring and will continue to conduct litter abatement activities. However, he emphasized they will not be accepting recyclables from the community at this time.
