Prairie Grove updates commercial solid-waste rates to cover current costs

The Prairie Grove City Council on Nov. 17 adopted an ordinance to update commercial solid-waste rates, seeking to align fees with current equipment and service costs after the last comprehensive update in 2007.

Staff explained that increases reflect replacement and rental costs for dumpsters and more frequent pickups for some businesses. Examples given during the presentation included: a 32-gallon container at $10 per month, two 32-gallon containers at $17 per month and an eight–32-gallon equivalent at $40 per month. Dumpster pickup pricing will vary by container size and number of weekly pickups, with staff offering sample figures ranging from about $22 for a single small pickup up to $88 for a larger container receiving multiple weekly pickups. The staff representative said these examples are intended to ensure the city at least covers costs rather than subsidizing commercial accounts.

Council discussion focused on fairness and covering costs rather than generating profit. The motion to adopt the ordinance was moved, seconded and approved by roll call; the transcript records unanimous yes votes from council members present.

What this means for businesses: the ordinance sets new rates and clarifies billing categories (small-business bag pick-up vs. dumpster service) so commercial customers and staff can align accounts with appropriate containers and pickup frequencies. The new schedule will be implemented through the city finance/public-works billing process.

Implementation: Public Works and Finance staff will update billing and notify affected commercial accounts of their new rates and classification.