(La Porte County, IN) - A proposed increase in recycling fees in La Porte County is on hold.  Officials said a $2 monthly increase would allow the La Porte County Solid Waste District to

become self-sustaining.

The concern over a fee increase has much to do with landlords owning a lot of rentals since

they pick up  a per unit charge.  LPSWD Board member Earl Cunningham said it’s not a good time for an increase with a lot of people still struggling and landlords would likely pass the extra cost down to their tenants.

The board chose to hold off on a decision until they look more into the impact of a rate increase on landlords.

La Porte County Solid Waste District Director Clay Turner said the district operates at between an $800,000 to $1 million annual deficit.  The shortfall was created because the district no longer receives tipping fees since the former Waste Management Landfill outside Michigan City closed several years ago.