We may soon see a change in the number of plastic bags used in Laredo.
A local group is working to try once again to pass at least a partial ban on the bags, meaning they won't be available at all retail stores.
It's not the first time the city tried to ban the use of plastic bags at local stores.
So is this time the charm?
As our Annette Garcia reports, the decision is all riding on the public.
“It’s almost anywhere you look. An open field. Along a fence or trees. Or flying around in the air. How many times do you see plastic bags dotting the landscape?”
They're the pesky bags that seem to get caught everywhere, eventually shredding into a bigger mess.
Though many have tried to get the city to ban the use of plastic bags at local stores hoping it will solve the littering problem, in the past, the idea hasn't gone over well with some retailers.
Now some local environmental groups and the city are trying it again.
“We’re re-launching an initiative to dramatically reduce the amount of plastic bags we use and discard in our city.”
Citing littering and the environmental detriment the oil and petroleum based bags have on the city, the group is hoping Lardoans stand behind their efforts.
“I think it's time for Laredo to step it up and be more progressive.”
“Local groups and city leaders want to know what you think about all these bags. They’ll soon be going door to door asking for your opinion.”
“We plan to do about 800 households.”
800 surveys taken from Laredo residents.
Who city leaders hope will support at least a partial ban.
Meaning plastic bags would not be available at some stores.
Perez believes Laredoans can make it happen.
“When you go to Sams’ they don’t issue any plastic bags. Everybody seems to be ok with that.”
“It’s very important that people answer the short survey just to get their input.”
The surveys are expected to begin next month.
Cortez says they've already spoken with large chain stores like HEB, that said they would be on-board with the ban if that's what Laredo residents want.
The surveys will be calculated and presented to city council over the next few months.