Board adopts change to county code to allow "opt-in" trash collection

The Board of Supervisors voted to amend and reorder Chapter 10 (Solid Waste, Refuse and Recycling) of the James City County Code to permit the county to offer and charge for "opt-in" curbside solid waste collection services and to update definitions to align with state law.

Bob Dittman of the General Services Department said the change corrects numbering inconsistencies caused by prior code edits and restores language needed to allow a subscription-based collection service. Staff identified the Roberts District as the initial target area for offering the service and said any countywide service would require subsequent board actions to finalize agreements and fees.

During the public hearing, resident Chris Henderson argued against a county-administered trash collection program, calling it unnecessary and stating that private providers offer better value. Henderson warned against expanding county government into services he described as the private sector's role.

Board members moved and approved the ordinance amendment on a roll-call vote. Staff noted that approval of the ordinance does not itself establish a countywide collection program; separate board approvals would be required before the county contracts for or implements services.

The ordinance amendment gives the county authority to set service parameters, approve rates and develop rules for reduced fees where applicable. Board members and staff said further public input and procurement work would follow before any implementation.