Streator staff recommends five-year renewal with Waste Management; council to vote next week

City staff presented a review of solid waste and recycling proposals and recommended renewing a five-year contract with Waste Management, the city's current provider, after comparing proposals from Republic (two proposals) and Waste Management.

The staff member said Waste Management's proposal came in below Republic's pricing and recommended approving a five-year contract next week. Staff said the first-year cost under the recommended contract would increase 12.37% over the prior year, with scheduled annual increases of 3% thereafter.

Staff noted that the city has operated the solid waste program at a loss in recent years and estimated an operating shortfall of roughly $60,000 to $70,000; staff said the council will need to approve a separate ordinance next week to adjust customer billing rates to recover costs and administrative overhead tied to utility billing.

The staff member described service provisions for residents under the recommended contract, including weekly collection, one large-item pickup per week, electronics collection, and an at-your-door service for qualifying items. A Waste Management representative was present in the building, the staff member said, and the company maintains regular contact with city hall.

No formal contract was executed at the meeting; staff recommended the council approve the contract and then adopt an ordinance setting rates and fees.