City staff updates council on single‑hauler trash process; contract and assessment steps remain

At the May 20 meeting the Merriam City Council received an informational update on the city's single‑hauler solid‑waste process and next steps toward implementing a citywide contract.

Ms. Garn (presenting staff) told the council the city is preparing a postcard and a frequently asked questions web page (merriam.org/trashservice) to communicate changes to residents. She said negotiations and logistics with contractor GFL remain active and that the city plans to feature the single‑hauler information in the fall Winter Highlights magazine to provide additional detail to residents.

Planned council actions: staff said the council will be asked in the coming months to approve the contract with GFL (through an assignment process described by staff), to create a separate solid‑waste fund for program revenue and expenses, and to establish a special assessment on the property tax bill to collect resident service charges. Staff noted they are coordinating with Johnson County on the assessment process and will return to council with the exact contract language and assessment steps.

Why it matters: the single‑hauler program will change how curbside trash is managed and how residents pay for service; staff emphasized they are preparing public communications and that GFL is cooperating with the city's timeline. No contract award or binding council authorization was made at the May meeting; the presentation was informational.

Next steps: staff will continue contract finalization, prepare the formal contract and assignment documents for council consideration, draft the new solid‑waste fund for the budget process, and continue public outreach.