County officials explore single trash franchise for improved service and cost reduction

The McCracken County Fiscal Court meeting on May 28, 2025, focused on the potential implementation of a county-wide trash franchise. This proposal aims to select a single trash pickup provider for the entire county, addressing ongoing complaints about service quality from multiple current providers.

County officials, including Steve Doolittle, discussed the benefits of consolidating trash collection services. They noted that having several providers leads to inefficiencies, such as increased wear on roads from multiple heavy trucks and confusion among residents regarding service schedules. By moving to a single provider, officials believe they can improve service reliability and potentially reduce costs for residents.

The discussion highlighted the current challenges faced by residents, including delayed pickups and rising costs, with some reporting fees exceeding $80 for three months of service. The proposed franchise could streamline operations and enhance accountability, as one provider would be responsible for all trash collection in the county.

Additionally, officials expressed concerns about illegal dumping, suggesting that a unified service could help mitigate this issue by ensuring that all residents have access to proper waste disposal. They emphasized the importance of evaluating proposals from potential providers to ensure the best value and service quality.

The court plans to further explore this initiative, with the possibility of trial implementation. If the expected benefits do not materialize, they could reconsider the approach. Overall, the discussion reflects a proactive effort to enhance waste management services in McCracken County, aiming for improved efficiency and cost-effectiveness for residents.