Lower trash pick-up rates, new services promised for Portage
Now that Portage city officials have approved a controversial plan to consolidate all residential trash pickups with one hauler, what will homeowners be getting? The contract calls for a base rate of $14.04 per month for trash pickup, or just over $42 per quarterly billing period. Officials said that will be a 44% lower rate for the typical homeowner, substantially lower for people who council members claim are being gouged by the trash firms.
Portage City Manager Pat McGinnis said annual rate increases will be capped. Recycling and pick-up dates will be the same. Homeowners will also be able to get yard waste pickups for a $10.50 additional subscription fee.
A new service will be the addition of the collection of one free bulk item each week for all customers. Waste Management’s David Wainscott said they ask that homeowners let them know about the pick-ups a couple of days ahead of time. There may be some restrictions: they don’t take tires, but they will take most large items…