Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Solid Waste Contracting topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
GFL opens opt-in residential service in Merriam; city contract starts Nov. 1, 2026
Summary
GFL has begun offering an optional residential hauling service to Merriam households; the city emphasized the service is opt-in and that the negotiated city contract and special rates will begin Nov. 1, 2026. Councilors and staff answered logistical questions from residents.
MERRIAM, Kan. — GFL Environmental has opened an optional residential trash service for Merriam households, city staff told the council, and the city’s negotiated contract with GFL will begin Nov. 1, 2026.
City staff said the offer is entirely opt-in; residents who sign up now will do so under individual contracts and will not receive the future negotiated municipal rate until the city contract takes effect on Nov. 1, 2026. The city described the mailer that recently went to residents and posted FAQs on the city website.
Staff said the single-hauler model that the city is moving toward remains optional for residents and that homeowners’ associations (HOAs) are still deciding whether to join the consolidated contract. Staff is meeting with HOAs and has heard from one HOA already; others are under consideration. The city’s staff member responsible for the update said she has not provided HOAs a firm deadline to opt in but expects GFL will request numbers once HOAs are ready.
Councilors and residents asked operational questions. Staff said residents terminating existing hauler contracts may face cancellation fees until the city contract begins on Nov. 1, 2026. On payment logistics, staff confirmed households that pay property taxes annually may likewise pay a full-year contract fee; staff said the contractor accepts common payment methods but some mechanics were still being finalized.
During the discussion a citizen provided an estimate of household counts: “It’s about 5,132 in Merriam,” the resident said when asked how many households the city serves.
What’s next: staff will continue HOA outreach, post FAQs, and return with any necessary updates as the city prepares for the municipal contract to begin Nov. 1, 2026.
