PORTAGE, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – They have been talking trash in Portage for some time now and it’s about to come to a head.
Members of the Portage City Council think that many residents are being overcharged by trash haulers who charge exorbitantly different rates for their services.
Last year, the city took measures to require haulers post their rates, but not satisfied with the results, this year the council asked staff to draw up the paperwork to designate a single hauler.
They like it so much the city even commissioned an animated advertisement to sell the idea.
That has not stopped a steady stream of comments from opponents.
Residents Jason Mikkelborg and Greg Miller spoke at the last meeting.
Tuesday, the city council is set to approve a five-year contract with Waste Management to handle all residential waste and recycling, and yard waste collections.
Council members like it because it will reduce wear and tear on roads, be more efficient and reduce rates for homeowners.
Council members Jim Pearson and Nicole Miller expressed their support.
Mayor Pro-Tem Pearson says he has been concerned about this issue for 16 years, and Miller says she was initially opposed to the idea but changed her mind when she found out the facts.
Several council members claim the waste hauling firms have been conducting a campaign against the proposal by mailer to protect their profits.
If approved, the new contract would not take effect until March of next year, giving everyone plenty of time to make the transition.
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