Augusta Moves Closer to New Trash Service Contract Amid Mixed Opinions
Augusta, Ga. — After months of discussions and deliberations, Augusta is moving closer to finalizing a new contract for citywide trash collection services. City engineers have recommended awarding the contract exclusively to Coastal Waste and Recycling, which currently shares pickup duties with another company.
The proposal to contract a single hauler has sparked debate among city commissioners, with some expressing concerns about whether one company can effectively serve the entire city.
“We just got our service back on track where folks were missing pickup, but I’m really concerned we’re going backwards on this one,” said Commissioner Jordan Johnson, voicing apprehension over limiting the city to one provider.
Commissioner Francine Scott echoed these concerns, emphasizing the city’s responsibility to serve all citizens. “Richmond County government is a service provider to all the citizens of Augusta, and I don’t really think one trash hauler would be sufficient,” she said.
Commissioner Catherine Smith Rice also expressed reservations, noting the city’s size. “Sticking with just one company – I’m on the fence with that, I am. This city is a large city,” she said.
However, other commissioners support the plan, arguing that a single hauler could ensure uniform service quality and efficiency across Augusta. Commissioner Alvin Mason stated, “No, we need to make sure everybody has the same level of service, effective and efficient service.”
One notable change under the proposed contract would affect recycling services. Instead of being included with regular trash pickup, recycling would become an optional service requiring residents to arrange a separate agreement with the hauler. This service would come with an estimated monthly fee of $12 to $13.
Commissioner Tina Slendak highlighted residents’ concerns about recycling costs and transparency. “A lot of people worried about recycling or want the option to know what’s going on. Yeah, what it reads now, if you want to recycle, you’re going to have to pay a little more,” she explained.
The total cost of the new contract remains unknown, a fact that has raised further concerns among commissioners. City Administrator officials plan to provide a recommendation on the contract price at a later date.
Commissioner Johnson emphasized the importance of transparency in the process. “We are going to limit ourselves to one hauler for the entire city and don’t even know what we’re going to be required to pay is very concerning to me,” he said.
If approved by the full commission at next week’s meeting, the new trash service contract is expected to take effect in August.
