Council hears complaints about Priority Waste service; city to review contractor performance and contract terms

Several council members raised complaints about Priority Waste’s service quality following the start of a new collection contract, and city staff said they will review contract terms to determine whether performance penalties or other enforcement mechanisms apply. Council members described missed or late pickups, equipment reliability problems and social-media reports from residents. Mayor Michael T. Lesich and councilors said they had received resident complaints and observed operational problems, while noting drivers appear to be working hard and that the contractor has committed new vehicles. City Manager said he would review the contract and report back; City Attorney noted many municipal contracts include clauses permitting fines for failure to meet service standards but that enforcement depends on how the contract defines nonperformance and how the city documents violations. The city will continue working with the contractor and monitor service as the company brings new trucks online.