Garbage collection costs for residents in unincorporated Buncombe County will rise by at least 21 percent as county leaders develop a new solid waste hauling contract.
The rate increase could be part of a contract with FCC Environmental Services, the company recommended by county staff for a proposed new garbage collector in Houston, Texas. The $23.66 per month basic trash and recycling service is a 21 percent price increase and is actually almost the same or less than what current contractor Waste Pro is offering.
A new contract with the FCC could be finalized after two votes by the Buncombe County Commission on May 7 and May 21.
In 2020, Waste Pro, a Longwood, Florida-based company, offers Buncombe County residents weekly trash and biweekly recycling for $19.21 per month. The price rises slowly due to increases caused by the Consumer Price Index and other small charges. Reaching $22.55 per month in 2023.
Waste Pro is raising the rate to $23.66 in 2024 after the county increased its landfill “tipping fee” and the CPI increased 3.1%. In November, commissioners voted to open the contract to potentially selecting a new vendor.
Starting January 1, 2025, the FCC proposed a monthly rate of $28.65. Waste Pro gave two options in its proposal: a $29.86 increase in 2027 or a $28.52 increase in 2026.
At the April 16 commission meeting, county solid waste director Dane Pederson said the FCC came up with the best contract when considering price and service.
“So the staff recommendation you will hear at the regular meeting on May 7 will be a recommendation to approve the solid waste concession contract with FCC Environmental LLC,” Pedersen told commissioners.
In an April 16 press release about the possible new contractor, the county said there would be “significant improvements,” including “technical and access improvements and dedicated community engagement.”
“In addition, the FCC proposes that the new vehicles will be owned by the Buncombe County government at the end of the contract period, with no cost to replace the carts, a seven-day turnaround time for new vehicle delivery, and strict spill and leak management and response,” the press release said. say.
It said prices for subscribers will remain unchanged for the first two years of the contract, “ensuring affordability and consistency”.
In its proposal, Waste Pro emphasized its relationship with its customers.
“We believe in always doing our best for our neighbors. This focus on local relationships drives our commitment to creating more sustainable and cost-effective waste and recycling solutions. ‘Care for our communities’ is both our The motto and business philosophy of Waste Pro founder John Jennings,” wrote regional vice president Chip Gingles.
Proposed new garbage contract
Here are some aspects of the proposed FCC contract:
- Basic service: Price is $28.65 per month.
- Premium Service: $59.00 per month. Premium service includes additional driving beyond the scheduled pickup location and may require the use of special equipment.
- Additional services: The purchase price of the “Bear Cart” is US$320, and the monthly rental fee is US$10.16. The monthly rental fee for additional serviced carts is US$12.
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Joel Burgess has lived in WNC for more than 20 years, covering politics, government and other news. He has written award-winning stories on topics ranging from gerrymandering to police use of force. Any tips? Contact Burgess at jburgess@citizentimes.com, 828-713-1095 or Twitter @AVLreporter.Please help support journalism like this by subscribing to Citizen Times.
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