Atoka council exercises contract extensions with Republic Services and approves first reading of modest solid-waste fee increase

The Atoka Town Council approved the town staff recommendation to exercise the optional extension years on the municipal solid-waste contract and advanced a first-reading ordinance to raise residential solid-waste fees.

Staff told the council the original contract began Jan. 1, 2023 and that exercising the two optional years would likely avoid higher costs from a new bid. Republic Services indicated it would accept terms for the extension. The contract-extension item (Exhibit I) was presented as a staff recommendation to exercise both optional years to carry service through mid-2027 before re-bid.

On fees, staff and council reviewed the town's solid-waste fund and transfers the town makes to its general fund. The current monthly charge was presented as $21.25; staff recommended an increase to $22.25 per month for years four and five (a $1.00 monthly increase) to keep planned transfers in place and preserve the fund balance. Council members debated smaller increases but approved the first reading of the ordinance for the $22.25 figure; because this was a first reading, final adoption was not immediate.

Councilors also noted the town has set aside funds for equipment purchases (truck/apparatus) and that the long-term fund balance depends on those capital decisions. One motion to table the item earlier in the discussion was used while staff confirmed numbers; the matter was then returned and advanced.

The council directed staff to provide final figures and the ordinance language for a future final vote.