Cuyahoga County Councilwoman Applauds Kroger Move To Phase Out Plastic Bags

Cincinnati-based grocery store chain Kroger announced it will phase out plastic bags in its nearly 2800 stores by 2025, transitioning to reusable bags.

And while the closest Kroger might be in Sandusky, Cuyahoga County Councilwoman Sunny Simon is pleased by the company’s decision.

“I think that their leadership will inspire and enable other grocery stores, especially here in Northeast Ohio, to see that this is a possibility for their business model and to incorporate policies that will save – literally save -- the future of this planet,” said Simon, a Democrat who represents District 11 in eastern Cuyahoga County.

Simon introduced legislation last year that would implement a 10 cent fee on each plastic or paper bag used in retail stores. She said conversation around her legislation continues, including some colleagues who want to ban plastic bags entirely.

The councilwoman also said she’s been in talks with local grocers in Northeast Ohio, including Zagara’s in Cleveland Heights.

But in the statehouse, Senator John Eklund is co-sponsor of a bill prohibiting localities from imposing any bag fees.

Simon said she expects council to look into her legislation more closely next year.

“I think the consciousness is getting raised, the bar is getting raised about the threats,” said Simon. “I think it’s becoming more accepted that plastic single use is going to be something we really have to deal with in some way.”