Portage Council approves five-year single‑hauler waste contract with Waste Management after hours of debate and public comment

Portage — The Portage City Council on July 22 voted to award a five‑year contract to Waste Management of Michigan, Inc. to serve as the city’s sole residential waste, yard‑waste and recycling provider beginning March 1, 2026. The resolution, which council members amended to correct several contract language issues and clarify operational details, passed by roll call with six votes in favor and one abstention from a council member who had recused themself earlier in the discussion.

City staff and consultant Justin Williams presented the competitive process and recommended Waste Management after an RFP issued in January 2025 produced four submissions. Williams said staff and the city’s consultant, True North Advisors, reviewed bids, interviewed vendors and negotiated terms; staff reported Waste Management’s five‑year bid would cost an estimated $29.0–29.4 million over the term and represent the lowest total cost compared with the other responsive bids. Williams told the council the recommended package included a $14.04 monthly household rate for garbage and a $10.50 yard‑waste option in the model presented to residents and that the contract limits annual price increases to 4 percent.

The city manager, Pat McGinnis, said staff had used the RFP to…