The New Monterey Business Association would like to remind the Lighthouse District's businesses and customers that Monterey City Council has voted unanimously to ban the use of plastic bags and the free distribution of paper bags at all retail establishments throughout the city beginning in July 2012. Please be aware that the ordinance affects retail shops but not restaurants.

Angela Brantley, Solid Waste Manager for the City of Monterey, reminds consumers that, "The choice is less about paper OR plastic and more about bringing your own reusable bag. Just place reusable bags in your car or near the door leading to your vehicle to remind you to take them when you shop."

Currently in Monterey, almost 3 million plastic bags and 2 million paper bags are given away each year! Let's all work together to reduce, reuse, and recycle. For more information on the new ordinance, please click here. You can also view the City's 3-minute video overview of the ordinance.