Lincoln City means to 'go green'

Lincoln City City Councilors will hear from the City’s Sustainability Committee this Monday at city hall on how to increase local businesses’ bottom lines by going green.

The Lincoln City Sustainability Committee (LCSC) will present its case that by reducing plastics through bans and providing a subsidy, consumers will choose businesses “going green” over other coastal tourism-based cities at “zero cost” to business owners.

LCSC is calling for a public hearing to discuss an outright ban on single-use plastics offered in a limited set of areas. LCSC wants the city council to vote on a city-wide ban of single-use plastics which can be found in places such as, restaurants, grocery store and convenience store delis and lodging breakfast bars.

The subsidy will use a percentage of transient room taxes (TRT) or money from the general fund to offset the cost local business owners will incur to switch to more expensive paper and compostable single-use alternatives. LCSC would like to see a subsidy last for 18-36 months.

LCSC believes a more devoted and loyal customer base will equal more business and higher profits for participating businesses.

Some businesses have already made the switch, including the iconic coastal landmark restaurant Lil’ Sambos.

“There’s already pressure from the public and within the industry to switch to paper straws and biodegradable containers,” Lil’ Sambos Owner Cary Moore said. “Restaurants are doing this now. The switch started a long time ago. Big chains like Burgerville have already switched.”

Sustainable landscaping will also be presented, where reducing the need for pesticides and herbicides will be discussed. A plan on how individuals and households can be guided and encouraged to garden organically is in the works.

Sustainable food rounds out the three topics LCSC will present to the council and deals with a proposed week-long food festival for locals and tourists named “Flavors 101.” According to LCSC, the event could reduce reliance on transported products, provide healthy nutrient-rich alternatives to packaged food and reduce food waste.

From LCSC presentation materials: