Though I have long been an advocate for the constitutionality of flow control, I am very skeptical about Rockland County’s need for it.  Flow control was not deemed necessary in the County’s original Solid Waste Management Plan, nor in the accompanying environmental impact statement.  I have long argued that flow control is a democratic tool which allows “the people” (through their elected representatives) to have a superior right to control local trash than the waste management industry which profits in providing the service.   The critics of flow control argue that government will create inefficient monopolies and bureaucracy, and ultimately not provide better service.

My concern with Rockland’s proposed flow control law is that its implications are not understood.  It will undoubtedly increase the size and power of local government and the (non-representative) Waste Authority.  The bureaucracy will grow, and with it the power of the politicians who control the bureaucracy.  There will be more jobs to dole out; and more need for waste management companies to seek the favor of politicians.  Government will gain “control” taxpayer dollars, to “flow” to political friends. This is an invitation for trouble.

The People of Rockland may be much better served will fair and open competition, plus regulatory oversight.  Our politicians, in my view, have not articulated a sound need for flow control.  In total, what overall cost savings and environmental benefits will result from flow control?  Without fully examining the broad implications of flow control, including the cost to taxpayers of increased government, bureaucracy and decreased competition, and without a demonstrable and compelling need, our county legislature should save flow control for another day.