New agreement with Waste Pro means increased rates for Crestview customers

CRESTVIEW — The city of Crestview could potentially enter a new solid waste franchise agreement with Waste Pro.

The council members unanimously approved to adopt the ordinance on the first reading with all members present at the Nov. 5 regular city council meeting.

The ordinance will go through a second reading likely in December.

Around 10,000 customers in the city use Waste Pro services, according to city clerk Elizabeth Roy.

These customers will see increases in the monthly rates for residential and commercial solid waste services.

Currently, the residential monthly rate for an 18-gallon recycle bin is around $18. The new rate will be $22.95 and $25.95 for a 96-gallon recycle bin.

The price for commercial businesses will also increase by over $3.

New service fees are expected go into effect Jan. 1.

Councilman Doug Faircloth spoke at the meeting about complaints he has received in recent months. He said he has had issues on his street with Waste Pro services.

"I've replaced my fence a couple of times," Faircloth said. "They don't know how to fit that truck in a 16-foot drive way."

Public Services Director Wayne Steele assured the council he met with Waste Pro and made demands for better service.

"I was very stern in my statements to them, and Ms. Roy can attest to that," Steele said. "…I had some concerns, and those concerns were addressed."

A bid-review committee met Oct. 16 and reviewed rankings of Waste Pro and Waste Management.

According to Roy, Waste Pro out-ranked Waste Management due to pricing differences.

The review committee consisted of the city clerk, public services director, finance director and the mayor.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: New agreement with Waste Pro means increased rates for Crestview customers