City approves trash carts, rates still unknown
Trash talk took center stage at Tuesday's city commission meeting. The group unanimously approved a measure to distribute new trash carts throughout the city. Officials say the move will streamline the city's solid waste collection and cut down on the cost of workman's compensation insurance for trash truck workers.
More than 20,000 carts will be purchased. Residents will receive a standard 65 gallon cart, with the option of moving to a smaller or larger size cart. The largest cart is 90 gallons and costs about $16, just one dollar more than the 65 gallon cart. But moving to the smaller 35 gallon cart, which would represent a reduction in solid waste production, does not come with a price decrease. City staff cautioned against offering a discount out of fears that people will underestimate the amount of trash they produce.
Although commissioners directed city staff to begin accepting bids for the manufacture of the carts the group will discuss the rate structure at a later date.