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Council pauses curbside program decision after hours of debate; schedules executive session next week
Summary
After extended public comment and heated debate about a proposed single-hauler curbside program, the council voted to table further action and hold an executive-session review next week before taking a final vote.
Portsmouth’s proposed municipal curbside trash program dominated the Jan. 27 meeting and drew extended public comment, attorney input and robust council debate before the council voted to table the item and hold an executive-session discussion next week.
The proposed model would use a single contracted hauler for a town-run curbside pickup option and operate an enterprise fund; the procurement process drew multiple proposals and one apparent low bidder (Mega / MTG). Critics and some councilors said the combination of an awarded contract and a separate ordinance requiring signups risked legal challenges and community backlash.
Consultants and staff told the council that the contract process included an RFP, scoring and selection because the town sought a single vendor to operate a town‑run curbside option and to reduce roadway impacts; DPW planning staff said successful bidders offered lower rates than existing subscription services. Supporters said a single municipal program could deliver lower prices for many households; critics said mandating a single vendor would remove consumer choice and might violate state competition rules.
Several residents and local stakeholders urged caution. One resident warned that a mandatory program could reduce competition and asked whether the Attorney General might review the arrangement under Rhode Island law that prohibits unreasonable restraints on trade.
Councilors debated rescinding the ordinance passed by the prior council and whether the town had a signed contract; legal counsel said rescinding an ordinance tied to a procurement could expose the town to claims, but urged the council to seek full legal review. After discussion the council voted 6–1 to table the matter for an executive-session review scheduled for the coming Monday; the council also asked staff to circulate contract documents and legal opinions ahead of the session.
Why it matters: Changing curbside service affects household costs, local small haulers and the town’s roads and budget. The issue has fiscal, operational and legal implications, and residents said they want clarity before the council imposes a single-provider requirement.
What’s next: The council scheduled an executive session for the next Monday to review legal opinions and contract documents and to prepare for a potential final vote at a subsequent public meeting; staff were asked to circulate materials to councilors in advance.
