HomeMy WebLinkAboutCity Council Minutes 02-22-1993 Special 3MINUTES
SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING
FORUM
FEBRUARY 22, 1993
A special meeting forum of the Plymouth City Council was called to order by Mayor
Bergman at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers of the City Center, 3400 Plymouth
Blvd., on February 22, 1993.
PRESENT: Mayor Bergman, Councilmembers Edson, Helliwell, Tierney, and
Vasiliou
ABSENT: None
STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Johnson, Assistant Manager Boyles, Public Works
Director Moore, Community Development Director Dillerud, and City Clerk
Rauenhorst
Mr. and Mrs. Van Cardashian, 1015 Ives Lane, addressed the Council regarding
garbage collection rates in the City. Mr. Cardashian stated the collection rates have
significantly increased in the last few years while their volume of garbage placed at the
curbside for collection has decreased due to changes in the recycling program. He
stated that rates quoted by licensed haulers in the City were consistently about $16 per
month minimum. He feels this rate is unfair, particularly to seniors who have very
little garbage to dispose. He questioned why the rate is measured by volume rather
than weight. Mr. Cardashian also suggested that the City could have a garbage drop-
off site, similar to the yard waste site, for residents with very little garbage.
Director Moore stated the Council addressed this issue several years ago and some
residents had strong feelings about retaining their current service. He stated volume is
used to calculate the charge because it is easy to measure, although it is not always
directly related to the garbage weight. The majority of the increased costs are due to
the haulers' fixed costs such as vehicles, labor, and insurance. The tipping fees have
increased but do not account for the full increase in costs charged.
Director Moore stated the City Code requires that each property owner dispose of
garbage in a sanitary manner. It does not require that each owner contract for garbage
collection. The Code does not prohibit a property owner from joining with an adjacent
property owner for combined pickup and cost sharing.
Mayor Bergman suggested that this issue be included in the next community survey.
The City could ask if residents would be interested in having a hauler assigned to them.
The meeting was adjourned at 6:55 p.m
Cit Clerk