Authority awards exclusive franchise for service area 5 to Good Company after negotiated rate reduction

The Solid Waste Authority of Palm Beach County voted to award an exclusive solid-waste-and-recycling franchise for service area 5 to Good Company after staff reported that the hauler agreed to lower its monthly curbside rates, bringing pricing in line with an adjacent service area.

Staff said the negotiated pricing reduces the cost for both six- and 12-cubic-yard service options and would promote rate equity with neighboring service area 2. Commissioner Flores, who represents the area and said she lives there, moved to fix the level of service at the six-cubic-yard option. Commissioner Saxs seconded the motion, and the board approved the award on a 5-0 voice vote.

Why it matters: The award combines contiguous geographic areas under a single hauler at comparable rates, which staff said should keep customer costs lower and streamline service. The board also read Resolution No. 2026-002, confirming the franchise award, ratifying the selection procedure, and making findings that the award serves the public interest.

Public input and next steps: During public comment Drew Martin of the Sierra Club asked whether the Authority might consider alternative rate structures such as pay-as-you-throw so that households that generate less waste pay less. Board members acknowledged the suggestion but moved forward with the negotiated award at this meeting. Staff said they will finalize contract documents and prepare the franchise agreement for execution.

The vote: The motion to accept the negotiated pricing and award the franchise passed by voice vote, recorded in the meeting as 5 in favor and 0 opposed. The recorded supporters who verbally indicated assent were Vice Mayor Woodward, Commissioner Flores, Commissioner Powell, Mayor Baxter and Commissioner Saxs.

The board also read Resolution No. 2026-002 into the record to make the award effective and to repeal prior resolutions that conflict with the new franchise.