To the editor:

With Mayor Bettencourt’s recent notification that the city may be moving toward a “trash tax,” I would like to just remind him of a few details: Republic Services is the second-largest trash and recycling company in the country. Because they acquired JRM Hauling & Recycling, they now have a small business unit and an MRF (Materials Recovery Facility) along with operating the transfer station and managing the capped landfill in the city.

These combined give the city an opportunity. An opportunity to renegotiate any terms they have with Republic. I understand that there are contracts but contracts can be renegotiated. If they don’t want to sit down with the city, put them in review. Hit them with, “That permit for the MRF is a little shaky. The city attorney and EPA might have to look a little more closely at it. Could be closed for years.” Everything is negotiable.

RJ Murphy

West Peabody