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University Place refuse contractor reports low Saturday turnout, pitches twice-year voucher for drop-off
Summary
UP Refuse told the City Council that monthly Saturday openings have averaged 2.9 customers since the renewed contract began in 2021; company representatives said free biweekly bulky‑waste pickups are full and proposed a year‑round voucher system allowing residents two drop‑offs per year to reduce traffic and wait times.
University Place City Council heard an update Aug. 4 from UP Refuse on contract changes that added bulky‑waste curbside pickup and monthly Saturday openings but produced lower‑than‑expected Saturday use. The city and the company discussed options, including a proposed voucher system allowing customers two year‑round drop‑off visits during regular business hours.
The discussion matters because the city’s current contract with UP Refuse includes the Saturday openings and the bulky‑waste program, and council members said changes could reduce traffic and improve service access for residents and businesses.
Michael Gruner, assistant general manager at UP Refuse, told the council, “we haven't opened the first Saturday of every month, since that contract was renewed... We've averaged about 2.9 customers per open Saturday.” He traced the low…
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