Montgomery County updates solid waste management plan with fee increase and tarp requirement

Trotwood residents can expect significant changes in waste management as the Montgomery County Environmental Services presented an updated solid waste management plan during the City Council meeting on May 6, 2025. The plan, which is the ninth iteration since its inception, aims to enhance waste reduction and recycling efforts while ensuring sustainable waste disposal for the next 20 years.

John Lanier, the manager of Community Outreach and Education, outlined the plan's key components, emphasizing the county's commitment to managing solid waste effectively. Montgomery County has successfully met its waste disposal guarantee, with contracts in place that ensure landfill capacity for over two decades. The county has also achieved its waste reduction goal for residential and commercial sectors, currently standing at approximately 25.3%.

A notable aspect of the updated plan is the proposed fee increase for waste disposal, set to take effect in 2026. The current fee of $3 per ton will rise to $2.65 per ton, translating to an estimated annual increase of 65 cents per household. This adjustment is necessary to address projected funding deficits and maintain essential waste management programs. Additionally, the plan includes a recommendation for a 6% annual fee increase thereafter to ensure long-term financial sustainability.

Another significant change involves the requirement for all vehicles entering the Montgomery County Transfer Station to be covered with tarps. This measure aims to reduce litter and debris on local roads, particularly from pickup trucks and trailers that often transport uncovered waste. The implementation of this requirement is expected to begin in the spring of 2026, following a comprehensive education campaign to inform residents and haulers.

The council's discussions highlighted the importance of these updates for the community, as they not only address immediate waste management needs but also promote environmental awareness and sustainability. As Trotwood prepares for these changes, residents can look forward to improved waste management practices that benefit both the environment and the community's quality of life.