MONTICELLO – The Monticello Village Board discussed concerns surrounding cardboard disposal during their latest Wednesday meeting, with the board weighing possible solutions for handling the amount of cardboard being left out by businesses and residents.

Citing the discussion point’s wording on the agenda as establishing a fee for cardboard boxes for businesses, Trustee Theodore Hutchins questioned whether a fee was the right approach.

“I don’t know about establishing a fee, but I think something has to be done about having the businesses too, as well as the homeowners, having to tie up that cardboard,” Hutchins said.

Trustee Gordon Jenkins agreed that businesses should play a role in keeping cardboard under control, pointing to the amount of boxes generated by local deliveries.

“I think that something has to be done about the businesses too,” Jenkins said, adding that businesses receiving large shipments could encourage customers and others to properly break down and bundle boxes.

Hutchins suggested another approach, saying the village could work with its liaison to remind residents and businesses that cardboard should be properly prepared for pickup.

“I think maybe our liaison, who’s always been helpful with us, can maybe send something out with the cardboard that the cardboard just be tied up,” Hutchins said.

Deputy Mayor John Barbarite also discussed the issue, explaining that unbroken-down boxes take up significantly more space during collection. He noted that when cardboard is not collapsed, fewer boxes can fit during pickup.

During public comment, resident Diana Curbelo shared her perspective on the issue, explaining that she has looked for used cardboard boxes while packing and has encountered businesses charging for them.

Jenkins responded to Curbelo’s comments by offering to help if she needed boxes in the future.

“If you ever need any boxes, just come to me. I have a whole bunch,” Jenkins noted.

While no formal action on the matter was taken during the meeting, the board will continue looking at their options.