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South Russell nears decision on single trash hauler
(by Joan Demirjian - February 17, 2010)
South Russell nears decision on single trash hauler
By JOAN DEMIRJIAN
South Russell will seek requests for proposals from trash haulers to provide trash-hauling service for the village.
The village will work with Solicitor David Ondrey to put together a list of service items that will be considered and then requested as part of the service, said Councilwoman Mary Beth Wolfe, who chairs the public utilities committee.
The items being considered include containers and bag service, recycling, curb and backyard pickup. Other options could include pickup of brush, leaves and appliances.
"A few trash haulers will pick up anything left out, while others will charge," Mrs. Wolfe said. "We're trying to reduce the extra costs to residents."
They are hoping to bring the matter of contracting with a single hauler to a head, Mrs. Wolfe said. The matter has been discussed for several years, she said.
Village Council held a public hearing Feb. 8 with the purpose of reviewing matters concerning a central trash hauler for the village and residents.
Councilman Jack Binder, also a member of the public utilities committee, said the village solicited and received 200 written responses from residents concerning the issue.
Reasons to pursue a single trash hauler for the village include reduction in costs to residents and to serve the village as well. An ordinance would mandate one trash hauler for the village.
"We think the streets would be safer and having one trash hauler would reduce the damage done by heavy trucks," Mr. Binder said. With several different carriers, there are four to seven trucks per week, picking up trash and recyclable material, he said.
While there are several people who do not want to change, the vast majority of residents would, Mr. Binder said.
Service standards would be established by which the hauler would abide, he said. If people have complaints, the village would be in a position to seek remedies.
"There is almost no reason not to move ahead," Mr. Binder said.
Council voted unanimously to request proposals from haulers.
There have been no discussions yet of servicing commercial accounts, Mr. Binder said.
Mayor Matthew Brett said the public hearing last week was well attended, "and we heard some good comments and feedback."
Concerns were expressed, including the trash-hauling trucks going through the village every day of the week, he said. No one was against the village pursuing the matter, Mr. Brett said.
"The next step is to pursue requests for proposals," he said. The goal is to establish the guidelines, controls and level of services in an agreement with a hauler.
Russell Township Trustees also are looking into the possibility of contracting with a single hauler to serve the township to reduce heavy truck traffic on the roads.
One of the issues discussed involves whether to provide curbside recycling or to retain the existing recycling center next to the township administration building for all recycling.
They will be voting on whether to move forward with seeking proposals for a contract, Russell Trustee James Mueller said.
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