Why Doesn't South Whitehall Mulch?

A Parkland Garden Club member says South Whitehall's lack of a mulching facility is environmentally irresponsible.

"We're not doing a good job recycling," Celie Turner told the Board of Commissioners at its Wednesday meeting.

"Why doesn't South Whitehall Township have a mulching facility? We have pickup for leaves," said Turner, a resident for 32 years.

"You're spending money to haul that and it really could be used on site. The residents could benefit. You need to get with it."

Turner said other municipalities, such as Lower Macungie and Bethlehem, offer their residents mulching facilties. South Whitehall residents have lacked a nearby mulching facility since one closed in Schnecksville a few years ago, she said.

Board President Tori Morgan wondered if residents would use a mulching facility.

"I think there's a cost analysis that needs to go with it, but you have a very good point," Morgan said.

Tony Ganguzza, director of administration, said the township does not have the equipment, someone who can operate it or a location for the equipment.

"You don't really need a whole lot of equipment to make mulch and compost. You just need a backhoe to turn it over every now and then," Turner said.

Turner said people would use the mulching facility, especially because landfills are filling up.

"I think it's the right thing to do."