City weighing trash-rate increase and purchase of grapple truck to cut bulk pickup costs

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.