In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the upcoming expiration of the waste collection contract with Waste Management, which has been in place since 2014. As the contract approaches its end in 2024, the council is considering new options for waste collection services, having received three bids through a Request for Proposals (RFP) process initiated late last year.

The current contract has provided satisfactory service and pricing, prompting the council to evaluate whether to renew with Waste Management or switch to another provider. The council president emphasized the importance of community feedback, noting that they received 48 comments from residents regarding the waste collection options.

Two primary options are now on the table: renewing with Waste Management or transitioning to Valley Waste. The council decided to eliminate a third option due to a lack of community support.

Valley Waste's proposal includes a shift to multiple collection days per week, which could lead to varied pickup schedules for residents. Additionally, while Valley Waste allows for the use of existing trash bags and bins, it imposes a weight limit on waste. The company plans to repurpose glass waste, which is currently often broken during collection, for use as landfill cover.

In terms of pricing, the current rate of $285 would increase to $329 with Valley Waste, potentially rising to $480 over the next decade. In contrast, Waste Management's proposal would introduce semi-automated collection, utilizing specialized bins that connect to collection trucks.

The council is set to make a decision on the waste collection service in the coming weeks, with public comments being encouraged to ensure community preferences are taken into account.