Herington officials and the city’s municipal solid-waste contractor discussed extending their contract during Tuesday’s meeting; no final vote was taken and staff will prepare a formal addendum for the commission to consider.

The contractor, who identified himself as Mike, asked the city to approve a three-year extension so he could maintain current terms and protect his business while he is not yet ready to transfer or sell. He said he would give the city notice if he negotiated a sale.

City staff recited current contract provisions during the discussion: the transcript records a monthly charge figure of $17.25 per customer and a reduced senior rate of $16.25 per month, though several speakers referenced slightly different amounts (including $19.50 and $20.50 in other exchanges). The contractor noted that some of the collected fee difference funds spring cleanup dumpsters and administrative costs and that he coordinates county cleanup efforts to reduce city costs.

Commissioners and staff discussed a possible extension length; staff prepared a draft addendum that would extend the current first addendum (which expires Jan. 31, 2026) and proposed a five-year extension. The contractor had asked for three years; several commissioners signaled they were comfortable with a five-year term. City staff said they will draft a formal addendum for the commission to consider in the coming weeks.