Clay County to begin delivery of new 95‑gallon garbage carts July 29 as recycling fees spike

Clay County staff told the Board on July 9 that a transition to automated collection and a new curbside cart program will begin with deliveries starting July 29.

Jamie Wilkes of Environmental Services reviewed landfill and recycling trends and said January–June 2024 commingled residential collections totaled about 1,495 tons. Wilkes contrasted the county’s 2023 processor payment (about $6 per ton revenue) with a new 2024 processor rate of roughly $85 per ton; under the new rate the county has paid about $127,000 to process the first half of 2024, compared with $8,970 in revenue at 2023 rates. Wilkes said those economics — and fluctuating markets — factored into the county’s contract decisions and outreach plans.

Operational changes announced: countywide delivery of new garbage carts will be a roughly seven‑week process beginning July 29; each household will receive a 95‑gallon cart by default, with an option to request a 65‑gallon swap when the program begins customer exchanges in October. Wilkes said residents should not place the new carts at the curb until Oct. 1 because Waste Management will not service them until the provider changeover is effective.

The county will also align garbage and yard‑waste collection on the same day beginning in October and will provide flyers, magnets and a QR code linking to the county website with rules and frequently asked questions. Commissioners asked about exceptions (seniors, accessibility, smaller household needs); staff said exceptions will be handled on a case‑by‑case basis and residents may request concierge service or alternate sizes once exchanges open in October.

Commissioners and staff emphasized outreach and urged residents to consult the county website for schedules and swap options.