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Forsyth County reviews solid‑waste franchise renewals as landfill capacity projections highlight future needs
Summary
Staff reported record Haynes Mill Road landfill tonnage in FY25 (about 330,000 tons), projecting capacity through roughly 2042; Minor Barnett proposed renewing franchises to current providers, setting base weekly collection at $17.32, replacing quarterly fuel adjustments with an annual CPI update, and raising optional cart rental from $3 to $5 per month.
Forsyth County staff presented a review of residential and small‑business solid‑waste franchises and landfill projections, telling commissioners that increased tonnage this year has accelerated capacity estimates for the county’s disposal facilities.
Minor Barnett, environmental assistance and protection director, said Haynes Mill Road landfill recorded about 330,000 tons in FY25 versus roughly 250,000 tons the previous year; using a three‑year average and population growth assumptions, staff projects the Haines (Haynes) Mill Road landfill will reach capacity around 2042 and is evaluating options for handling the county’s waste after that date.
Barnett proposed awarding new franchises to the existing three franchise holders with an initial term of three years and two two‑year extensions. Key proposed terms include a locked base weekly collection rate of $17.32, annual CPI‑based adjustments replacing the prior quarterly fuel surcharge mechanism, and an increase in the optional garbage‑cart rental fee from $3 to $5 per month. Barnett also said franchise holders must continue to offer optional curbside recycling collection as a condition of the franchise.
Staff said more than 25,000 households in the unincorporated area are eligible for service and over 18,000 currently subscribe; about 4,900 households subscribe to optional recycling service. Commissioners asked whether new contracts will require certificates of insurance (auto, commercial general liability and workers’ compensation); staff said the new agreements effective Jan. 1, 2026 will require documentation.
Board members raised service‑quality concerns about route delays reported in parts of the county; Barnett said haulers have reorganized routes, added an additional truck for county service, and that most delays were one day rather than missed collections. The board will consider the franchise and rate resolutions at its Nov. 20 meeting.
