Vernon Hills staff negotiates five‑year Waste Management extension with softened increases; board to consider ordinance June 3

Village staff presented a negotiated extension proposal with Waste Management as the village’s residential franchise contract approaches its November expiration. Manager Timoney said staff reviewed market comparables and consulted the Solid Waste Agency of Lake County before negotiating with Waste Management.

Key elements: a five‑year extension; a softened year‑one increase and 4.5% increases in years 2–5 (replacing a proposed 5% in earlier drafts); preservation of tiered pricing between single‑family and multifamily accounts; mirror pricing between 35‑ and 65‑gallon cart levels so residents who change cart sizes are not penalized; and allocation of true cost for twice‑weekly pickups to reflect additional driver/truck and street wear. Waste Management also proposed optional year‑round organics collection if at least 150 households subscribe (subscription fee cited as $120 for the season) or else a year‑round drop‑off container at public works at no charge.

Board members and staff discussed HOA billing implications (many multifamily accounts are billed through HOAs), the timeline for resident outreach and enrollment, and practical fit of larger carts in garages. Manager Timoney and Assistant Village Manager Petrillo said staff maintains HOA contact lists and will coordinate mailing and outreach. Trustees directed staff to bring the extension ordinance to the June 3 meeting so rates can be locked in and communications can begin.

No final adoption occurred May 20; staff will return with ordinance language and outreach materials.