Commissioners discuss negotiating extension with Hardy Disposal after favorable cost and service survey

County Assistant County Manager Doug Baber briefed the Hardee County commissioners on July 14 about a staff review of residential trash-collection service provided by Hardy Disposal and recommended pursuing contract-extension negotiations.

Baber said the county surveyed surrounding counties and local cities and found Hardy Disposal’s twice-weekly pickup and current monthly equivalent—presented as $12.46 per household for twice-weekly service—compare favorably with rates in nearby jurisdictions. Staff told commissioners that complaints have generally been handled by Hardy Disposal and that the company coordinates with landfill staff and county holiday schedules. Baber recommended beginning contract negotiations to extend Hardy Disposal’s agreement, noting the current contract has two years remaining and an extension could add up to 10 additional years (for a total of up to 12 years if the board chose a full extension).

Commissioners expressed support for continuing the relationship and praised Hardy Disposal as a homegrown company that performs well. Several commissioners raised operations questions: Commissioner Wells asked about rotation of pickup days that fall on holidays, and Hardy Disposal representatives said the current contract directs holidays to the next collection day and that rotating schedules would be logistically challenging but could be examined. Commissioner Chaney asked about private roads where collection is inconsistent and suggested exploring dumpster options for clusters of private-road residences.

No formal motion or vote was recorded on the extension during the meeting; staff sought authority to begin negotiations and said they are available to answer follow-up questions.

Speakers present included Assistant County Manager Doug Baber and multiple commissioners; Hardy Disposal representatives answered operational questions during discussion.