by James Coulter
Lake Wales residents can expect to see their solid waste collection fee increase by $3.17 if the city approves a five-year contract with a solid waste service.
At their regular meeting on Tuesday, Lake Wales city commissioners voted unanimously to approve the first reading of an ordinance that would enter the city into a five-year contract with Republic Services for solid waste collection.
The City of Lake Wales entered into a franchise contract with Republic Services in 2011. The contract allows Republic Services to offer the collection of domestic solid waste, recyclable materials, and yard waste for residents.
However, as the contract has expired, the city is planning to enter into a new contract with Republic Services for five years, with the option of a five-year extension “by mutual agreement.” The city had received two bids submitted by Republic Services and the Trash Taxi. Upon review, city staff recommended entering into the contract with Republic Services.
Through the new contract, the monthly residential fee from Republic Services will increase by $8.46, increasing from $17.05 to $25.51 per month (and $10 for an additional cart). As such, the city’s monthly residential fee will see an increase of $3.17, increasing from $23.62 to $26.79 (and $15 for an additional cart).
Commissioner Robin Gibson inquired if the new contract included provisions for recycling, as he did not recall seeing any mention of recycling. Dorothy Abbot, Director of Finance, clarified that Page 14 of the contract includes a recycling incentive.
Abbot also mentioned that, despite the residential fee increase, she and her team were working to ensure that residents do not experience “sticker shock”, as city staff was looking into alternatives for the future.
