On the morning of August 1, for the first time, a city exploratory committee met to talk about the future of plastic grocery bags in Madison. These plastic bags are seen by some as an environmental hazard because they are petroleum based products that are not easily recyclable. Cities like Seattle, San Francisco and Ann Arbor already have enacted some kind of ban. Could Madison be next?

The aforementioned committee discussed alternatives to a ban, such as encouraging companies to recycle returned bags, including them in curbside recycling, or just placing a tax on them.

"I think there are viable alternatives and I think there are ways we can eliminate plastic bags at larger stores," said Bruce Dickie who works for the Commission for the Environment. I think the real question is why take the time and spend taxpayer dollars to do it.

I asked Mr. Dickie that question and he admitted that there are larger issues, but this is something that is easy to address. He added that we always need to do the right thing for the environment even if it is really small.

The committee will meet again in about a month after talking to local stores to get their input.

When I look at Madison, I see a wonderful city which I have greatly enjoyed being a part. But, it has its fair share of problems and plastic grocery bags just does not seem to be one of them. I think taxpayer dollars could be put to better use.

What do you think? Am I wrong?