Frankfort commissioners direct staff to outsource solid waste, city to cover cost after debate

The Frankfort Board of Commissioners voted 4–1 on March 23 to direct city staff to proceed with outsourcing residential solid waste collection and to have the city pay the contractor, after a presentation from Public Works Director Sara Anderson and two late public comments opposing charging for trash.

Public Works Director Sara Anderson presented the Solid Waste Services discussion during unfinished business and described options considered for service delivery. Two late citizen comments raised objections: property owner Alec Fern said he was "against charging for trash and recycle," and property owner Bob Bullock Jr. questioned proposed rates and asked what alternative avenues the city had examined.

Commissioner Rob Richardson moved to direct staff to proceed with one of the companies to outsource solid waste and for the city to pay the contractor; Commissioner Katima Smith-Willis seconded. The motion passed with Commissioners Richardson, May, Smith-Willis and Mayor Layne Wilkerson voting in favor and Commissioner Leesa Unger voting against.

The vote directs staff to begin negotiations and contract steps for outsourcing; the motion as recorded did not specify a vendor, final contract terms, or an implementation date. The board's action directs staff to continue procurement and contracting work, rather than immediately changing billing or service levels for residents.

Next steps noted in the meeting record include staff continuing the procurement/selection and bringing contract terms back to the Board for approval or further action as required. The meeting record does not list a timetable, projected per-household costs, or whether a phased implementation or opt-outs will be available.

The Board adjourned at 6:08 p.m.