According to the 2021 census by the United States Census Bureau about 20% of the City of Jamestown’s residents were 65 years of age and older. Many of them women and many single women. Our total population, reported by the Bureau, was around 19,800 residents. That leaves us with around 3,960 residents who might be considered elderly. That figure does not include the disabled under the age of 65 who may have limited mobility, nor does it represent the population over the age of 65 who are not capable of physical tasks.

There has been some discussion about the recent decision by BPU to refuse garbage pick up to some of the taxpayers. Some are angry and some have been brought to tears. Some have been told there will an additional fee for pick up. Kind of like they were being punished. The employees are not at fault. They are only following administrative orders. However I have witnessed times when the truck arm is not used to empty the trash cans. The question is whether the BPU’S practices have become insensitive and mean-spirited to the needs of the taxpayers who happen to pay their salaries.

There was a time when garbage pickup was included in our taxes. That was taken away and we were taxed instead. There was a time when sewer was included in our taxes. That was taken away and we were taxed instead. There was a time when our sidewalks were plowed in the winter and included in our taxes. That was taken away and we became responsible for that. However the taxes kept coming. There was a time when maintenance of our sidewalks were included in our taxes. That was taken away and we became responsible. However, the taxes kept coming.

Do you really believe that 4,000 plus taxpayers, women, elderly, and disabled, are capable of shoveling a path of snow for garbage pickup day? If you believe that I have a piece of ocean front property in Arizona I’ll sell you. We can barely lift the trash can.