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Martin County cancels 65-gallon recycling cart rollout, amends contract with GFL
Summary
Facing contamination and cost concerns, Martin County suspended an $800,000 purchase of 65-gallon recycling carts, amended its contract with GFL to keep 18-gallon bins, and approved a CPI adjustment; the board voted unanimously to cancel the cart order and amend the contract.
Martin County commissioners voted April 14 to amend the county’s solid-waste collection contract and cancel a planned distribution of 65-gallon recycling carts, following staff warnings about contamination, cost pressures and an estimated unbudgeted expense tied to the cart purchase.
County Manager James Bennett told the board recycling costs and contamination at the sorting center had driven a projected budget shortfall. The county had ordered 12,000 65-gallon containers with a notional cost discussed in the meeting; staff suspended the purchase pending further education and review.
Representatives from Green For Life (GFL), the contractor formerly known as Waste Industries, attended and supported staff recommendations to focus on public education to reduce contamination. The contract amendment retains 18-gallon bin recycling collection for residents and cancels the 65-gallon cart rollout. A CPI adjustment of 1.4% for the 2021 contract year will be applied on the anniversary, per the amendment.
Commissioner Joe R. Ayers moved to amend the contract, cancel the 65-gallon cart order and continue use of small recycling bins; Commissioner Emily Biggs seconded and the board approved the amendment unanimously (5-0).
County staff said they will continue education efforts and re-evaluate collection options as part of future budgeting.
