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West Hanover extends Republic Services hauling contract through 2028, adds optional 35‑gallon low‑volume can at reduced rate
Summary
After a lengthy discussion about service performance, costs and county disposal requirements, the board voted 3–1 to extend the Republic Services municipal residential hauling contract through June 30, 2028, holding the quarterly rate at $140.58 and offering an optional 35‑gallon container at $112.47 per quarter for qualifying low‑volume households.
The West Hanover Township Board of Supervisors approved a one‑year extension of the municipal residential solid waste hauling contract with Republic Services, extending the agreement through June 30, 2028, and adding an optional 35‑gallon low‑volume cart at a discounted quarterly rate.
Republic's presenter addressed resident concerns and explained industry pressures that have driven prices higher. The presenter described changes in recycling markets, driver shortages and mandatory county disposal arrangements. "By law, we have to take it to the Harrisburg incinerator, and we pay a $113.49 a ton when we dump that," the presenter said, describing Dauphin County disposal obligations and how disposal costs affect pricing.
Under the modification the board approved, the township will hold the 2026–27 quarterly rate at $140.58 per quarter; residents who opt for the smaller 35‑gallon low‑volume cart will be offered a reduced quarterly rate of $112.47 for the contract extension period. Republic described the 35‑gallon option as voluntary and targeted to residents who "don't generate as much trash," and said that carts would be guaranteed to be serviced when properly used.
Residents raised questions about missed pickups, automated early‑morning calls and the county's handling of household hazardous waste. Republic's presenter described steps taken to reduce erroneous notifications, clarified the company logging and recovery process for missed pickups, and said the firm would work with township staff to improve closed‑loop complaint handling. The board asked about contract remedies for unsatisfactory performance; staff and the presenter said the contract contains performance provisions but noted high overall service levels reported by the hauler.
After discussion and public comment the board voted 3–1 to approve the extension and the optional low‑volume container; one supervisor recorded a respectful opposition. The board directed staff to prepare an acknowledgment letter and a written modification to the original agreement for signatures and to include the program details in an upcoming township mailer.
