Village Committee Proposes $20 Fee for Brush Disposal Access Amid Service Changes

The Village of Jackson's Board of Public Works meeting on August 26, 2025, focused on proposed changes to the village's brush disposal program, aiming to enhance efficiency and generate revenue. A key proposal discussed was the introduction of a $20 annual fee for residents to access the brush disposal site. This fee is intended to offset costs associated with labor and maintenance, as the village has been struggling with improper disposal practices and excessive man-hours spent on brush collection.

Residents expressed mixed feelings about the fee. Some acknowledged that while they would be willing to pay for the convenience of disposal, others might opt out, leading to potential increases in unsightly curbside brush piles. The discussion highlighted the challenges of enforcing proper disposal methods, as many residents do not comply with the specified 4x4 foot bundle requirement, complicating collection efforts.

The board also considered the frequency of brush pickups, with suggestions for increasing the number of annual pickups from two to four. Residents argued that more frequent pickups would prevent neighborhoods from looking unkempt and would encourage compliance with disposal guidelines.

The meeting underscored the village's ongoing efforts to balance community needs with operational efficiency. As the board moves forward with these proposals, the implications for both residents and village operations will be closely monitored, with the aim of improving the overall appearance and functionality of the community's waste management system.