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Council asks administration to clarify Republic Services rules after member concerns about mattress wrapping and Freon removal
Summary
Council discussed notices from Republic Services about mattress wrapping, furniture wrapping and Freon removal. City staff said they will review the contract with Republic to confirm whether residents or the contractor are responsible for Freon removal and whether landlords must pay for large curbside collections.
Council discussed correspondence from Republic Services and concerns about changes or perceived changes to pickup rules for 2025–2026.
Councilmembers said residents reported new instructions stating that residents must remove Freon from appliances and wrap mattresses and upholstered furniture before curbside pickup. Councilmember Duvall and others said the city’s contract with Republic appears to allow the contractor to remove Freon and to accept large-item pickups if the landlord requests and pays for them; council asked staff to confirm and to ensure public guidance matches contract terms.
Council and staff described the existing operational practice: if large piles or hazardous items sit in the public right-of-way, city crews or the building department may tag and remove them to prevent hazards; the city then bills property owners. Council members emphasized driver safety and noted drivers often refuse unwrapped mattresses because of bed-bug or handling concerns. Councilmember Springowski said drivers avoid taking unwrapped upholstered furniture for fear of bringing infestations home.
Safety-service staff said they would review Republic’s notice and the contract, confirm who must remove Freon and whether wrapping requirements in the mailed notice align with the contract, and report back. No formal change to policy or ordinance was recorded; council directed staff to clarify and follow up.
