Lafayette County Announces Increase in Trash Collection Rates
Lafayette County residents will see a rise in their monthly trash collection bills beginning October 1. The monthly fee for those living outside the city limits will increase by $8, moving from $12 to $20. This decision was made by the Lafayette County Board of Supervisors during a recent budget hearing.
Reasons for the Rate Increase
The last adjustment to the garbage collection fee was back in 2014, when the rate increased from $10 to $12. Before that rise, the fee had only gone up by $1 since 2000. According to County Administrator Kate Victor, the current cost for the county to provide residential trash collection is approximately $19.80 per month.
Several factors led to the board’s decision to increase rates. Among them were rising costs associated with fuel, equipment, and labor. The impacts of these rising expenses became most pronounced during the COVID-19 pandemic, during which no adjustments were made to the trash collection fees.
Operational Changes and Costs
In 2017, Lafayette County upgraded its trash collection system by switching to automated trucks, a move that improved safety but also came with increased costs. The county’s provision of trash cans to residents at no charge will continue, despite these cans costing the county about $55 each.
The automated trucks are more expensive to operate than the older rear-loading models. The automated arms of these trucks incur significant wear and tear, leading to higher repair costs over time.
Community Impact
Residents living in Lafayette County will now need to adjust their monthly budgets to account for this increase in their trash service. It’s essential for community members to understand that this fee helps ensure that the Solid Waste Department can continue to provide reliable services.
The county aims to maintain the efficiency and safety of its trash collection services, which have been a focus for officials. As costs continue to rise, officials feel the need to adequately fund these essential services.
Looking Ahead
As the community adjusts to this hike, it remains crucial for residents to keep track of local government decisions that affect their daily lives. The Board of Supervisors indicated that they would continue to monitor costs and services closely and are committed to keeping the community informed regarding future changes.
The increase in trash collection fees, although an additional expense for residents, reflects necessary adjustments to maintain operational capabilities in light of rising costs. Local officials hope this change will allow them to meet the demands of a growing community and provide quality service consistently.
Conclusion
In summary, starting October 1, Lafayette County residents living outside the city limits will see their trash collection fee rise to $20 per month due to various factors, including increased costs for labor and equipment. As the community navigates this change, it is crucial to remain engaged and informed about local government actions that impact daily life.
