City staff told the Tipton Common Council that the current monthly charge for trash, recycling and yard waste has been operating at a deficit and that the city is considering raising the monthly rate and modifying the bulk pickup program.
City staff said the last rate increase occurred years ago (from $13 to $15) and that updated financial analysis shows the city is losing money on curbside collection, recycling and yard waste. The bulk-trash pickup was previously provided at no additional charge but moved to a fee when costs rose.
Staff discussed procuring a grapple truck that could replace monthly dumpster pickups and the recurring $24,000 expense currently paid to haul dumpsters for bulk pickup. Staff said the grapple truck would represent a one-time capital cost but could reduce ongoing contractor dumpster costs and be used for other municipal work; the monthly cost difference was described as potentially modest compared with continued outside hauling contracts.
Dylan, a municipal staff member who prepared trash data, presented analysis and asked the council to be prepared for a rate discussion. Council members said they knew rate increases are unpopular but noted the city cannot keep operating the service at a loss and that procuring equipment may be more cost-effective than contracting out the service to a private hauler.
City staff said the alternative—contracting full curbside service to a private company such as Republic or Waste Management—would likely result in higher charges to residents (staff estimated private costs in the range of $60–$80 per month for residents) and could also require significant taxpayer subsidies. The council directed staff to include potential rate adjustments and equipment options in upcoming budget discussions.