After reading the Times report on the burning ban hearing held Aug. 5 in Canton, it appears there is a need for an up or down vote on this issue.

I was glad to read some of the issues I have raised were mentioned. Some agree with me that an alternative to plastic would better suit product packaging and it's disposal. Some agree and mentioned there are folks who can't afford trash pickup fees and will, to avoid fines, deposit bags of trash along our highways making themselves criminals. One solution I have not mentioned in my letters, recycling, was brought forth. I have not mentioned recycling, there is a program in existence which could be expanded on.

The Department of Environmental Conservation has chosen an opportune time to institute a final decree on open burning. Gasoline prices are eating our lunch, and this makes trash pickup at the curb very attractive. Trash haulers will have to increase their fees, but to some this looks better than taking there own.

Many townies want this issue settled, no more burn barrels, and I would feel the same if I had to live in close proximity to one spewing foul orders.

Let's do a vote, let each county offer a referendum on the November ballot only 80 some days away. The issue would be better resolved by a vote and isn't that the American way.

Joe Stark

Norfolk