Council outlines new five‑year refuse contract with Republic and rollout of 95‑gallon toters

Borough staff briefed council on the recently negotiated five‑year refuse and disposal contract with Republic, explaining operational changes and customer expectations.

Under the new contract, every residence will receive two 95‑gallon toters (one for garbage and one for recycling) at no separate charge. Staff said Republic requires their branded toters be used and that the company estimates each toter can hold about eight garbage bags. The contract includes an escalator structure rather than a flat five‑year rate, and staff outlined early‑payment discounts, base fees and penalty periods for the coming year; the administration acknowledged residents will see an increase (staff cited an approximate $80‑increase compared with last year for base fees if paying without the early discount).

Delivery and schedule changes were discussed: the fourth ward’s collection days will be consolidated to Wednesdays beginning in the new year, and toters will be distributed in mid‑December with pick up of service changes slated for early January. Staff urged residents to contact Republic or borough offices with questions about damaged toters or requests for additional toters (additional toters may be available for a fee under the contract).

What happens next: Republic will distribute toters and staff will publish schedules and billing details; staff asked for patience during the rollout and said the borough will share further information in bills and on the website.