Board authorizes advertisement for 2025–2029 waste, recycling and yard‑waste contract after wide public comment

Township staff presented a draft bid specification for residential solid‑waste, recycling and yard‑waste collection (2025–2029) that includes the current twice‑weekly trash service as a base bid and several alternates: shifting to automated collection (one or two days per week), options for township‑owned vs. hauler‑owned carts, the ability for residents to purchase a second cart, and enhanced customer service requirements (dedicated phone line, email and mobile notifications). The intention is to post the bid in May, open bids in June and award in August to allow time for public education and logistics if carts are required.

Staff emphasized the need to address rising contract costs and customer service complaints from the current vendor; the draft also includes stronger contract penalties and carve‑outs for neighborhoods where manual collection is necessary. Residents urged the Board to consider the effect on local jobs (some expressed concern that automated collection can reduce labor demand), to ensure timely bulk‑pickup options and to clarify who is responsible for replacing carts damaged by trucks.

Township staff said they will require bidders to provide staffing projections and customer‑service plans; the board authorized advertisement of the bid and directed staff to provide clear public information about the difference between authorizing a bid and awarding a contract. The motion to authorize advertisement carried 5–0.