Title
a. Adopt a resolution finding the proposed ordinance adding Chapter 10.43 to the Monterey County Code categorically exempt under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA); and
b. Adopt an ordinance adding Chapter 10.43 to the Monterey County Code relating to the use of single-use carry-out bags, recycled paper bags and reusable bags by retail establishments.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors:
a. Adopt a resolution finding the proposed ordinance adding Chapter 10.43 to the Monterey County Code categorically exempt under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA); and
b. Adopt an ordinance adding Chapter 10.43 to the Monterey County Code relating to the use of single-use carry-out bags, recycled paper bags and reusable bags by retail establishments.
SUMMARY:
The subject ordinance would add Chapter 10.43 to the Monterey County Code to prohibit certain types of retail establishments within unincorporated Monterey County from providing thin-film plastic single-use carryout bags at the point of sale and to require a minimum charge of ten cents for recycled paper bags and reusable bags. The purposes of the proposed ordinance are to reduce litter, reduce impacts to water bodies and wildlife, decrease impacts to storm-water systems, promote a shift to reusable bags and reduction of bag use overall and thereby protect the natural resources and environment of Monterey County. Key elements of the proposed ordinance are that it:
* Prohibits retailers from providing thin-film plastic single-use carryout bags, free recycled paper bags, or free reusable bags to customers.
* Requires a minimum charge of ten cents ($0.10) to provide a recycled paper bag or reusable bag to a customer, with exceptions made for customers who participate in certain governmental or non-profit programs; it allows the ten cent charge to be retained by the retailer.
* Applies to retail establishments that sell perishable or nonperi...
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