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Leon Valley debates ending unlimited free brush pickup; council holds first read on code changes
Summary
On first read, council discussed proposed amendments to the city's solid‑waste code that would remove or limit the unlimited free semiannual brush pickup authorized by a 2021 resolution through 2024; staff outlined options including a flat fee, prepaid service or liens, and noted average cost per pickup approximated $5,000.
The Leon Valley City Council held a first reading on Sept. 16 of proposed amendments to Article 14‑02 of the city's code of ordinances governing solid‑waste collection and brush pickup.
Background: A 2021 resolution committed the city to provide unlimited semiannual brush pickup 'through 2024.' Staff told council that the policy expired at the end of 2024 and that continuing the service without offsetting revenue causes recurring cost pressures. City staff estimated a typical brush‑pickup event averages roughly $5,000 in city costs (staff time, landfill trips and equipment), while Tiger Sanitation’s contractual overage charge for brush beyond the 8 cubic‑yard allowance has been quoted at $30 per cubic yard in the current contract.
Options discussed: Staff and council discussed alternatives including (1) requiring residents to call and prepay Tiger Sanitation for overage pickup; (2) charging a flat fee for city pickup and putting unpaid charges as liens on property; (3) continuing limited pickup while acquiring a grappler truck (capital request previously proposed); or (4) eliminating the city pickup and directing residents to third‑party facilities and contractor options. Councilors asked staff to research peer cities and return with a proposal; staff indicated they would draft ordinance language and present budget implications.
Next steps: The item was a first read; council provided direction to return with an amended resolution/ordinance and options (including flat fee models and lien enforcement) for a later meeting.
