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Kankakee manager recommends continuing garbage contract with Republic; 4-unit exception proposed
Summary
City staff told the Environmental Services Utility board they recommend staying with Republic for garbage and recycling service starting Jan. 1, 2026, preserving current curbside service for most customers but allowing 4‑unit property owners an option to contract separately; the proposed contract will be subject to legal review and a resolution to continue service was discussed.
KANKAKEE, Ill. — City manager told the Environmental Services Utility board on Dec. 15 that the license and franchise committee reviewed two proposals for solid-waste, yard-disposal and recycling services and is recommending the city stay with Republic, the lower-cost proposer.
The manager said the committee voted in favor of a motion (6–0 in committee) and recommended an option that keeps garbage and recycling service identical to the current arrangement for all customers. The city presented a second option considered during the procurement — centralized recycling — but staff said the price difference between the two service options was small and recommended retaining the status quo for curbside recycling.
“That is staying with Republic,” the city manager told the board.
The manager also said the service rules will change for some larger rental properties: owners of four‑unit buildings will be allowed the option to contract for their own collection services in the future, while properties with three units or fewer will remain required to use the city’s contracted service. Staff said they will contact affected four‑unit owners and provide about 60 days’ notice for any changes.
The manager cautioned that the formal contract language is not yet drafted and that the agreement is subject to legal review and final terms. No final contract vote was recorded at the ESU meeting; staff said a resolution to continue service and finalize the contract was the intended next formal step so the city has an in-force agreement by Jan. 1.
Next steps: staff to incorporate committee items into draft contract language, pursue legal review, notify impacted property owners and return to council with final contract approval and resolution.
