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In these 2024 file photos, St. Marys officials inspect new refuse toters and an automated garbage truck to load them.
ST. MARYS - After two rate studies and months of debate, St. Marys residents will see a hike on their trash bills starting next month.
City councilors Monday night unanimously passed an emergency ordinance revising the city's trash rates for both in town and out of town residents, along with their commercial clients.
The rate changes were deemed necessary following two rate studies, one done by the county and another by an outside firm.
The city's current rates don't provide adequate funding for the department's day-to-day operations and significant capital expenses, which include truck replacements and maintenance.
As of March 24, the city's refuse fund was in the red $156,000.
The ordinance sets the base monthly trash fees at $28 for city residents; $20 per month for those 65 and up; and $31 a month for out-of-town residential customers. An extra monthly fee of $3.50 will be charged for each extra cart used.
In these 2024 file photos, St. Marys officials inspect new refuse toters and an automated garbage truck to load them.
For commercial customers, the ordinance would set a monthly rate of $86.13 for a 1-yard dumpster; $108.05 for a 1 1/2-yard dumpster; $130.46 for a 2-yard dumpster; $221.65 for a 4-yard dumpster; and $328.61 for a 6-yard dumpster.
Councilors voted 5-2 to amend the ordinance on its second reading last month, which means the new rates go into effect on May 1, instead of June 1, as originally proposed.
The discounted price for senior citizens would not be automatic.
In order to be eligible for the senior discount, customers need to apply with the utility department by April 24.
Any customers that apply after the 24th day of a month will have to wait for their discount to be applied until the next month. Seniors must provide proof of age.
This will be the city's first trash rate change since 1999.
Also at Monday's regular meeting, councilors:
• heard the second reading of an ordinance to conduct a five-year review of the city's Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area, and to approve its continued operation in specific parts of downtown St. Marys. A public hearing on the matter is set for 6:15 p.m. April 27.
• welcomed members of Scout Troop 38, and answered their questions on local government following the meeting.
• approved a liquor permit request for a Duchess convenience store and gas station that's set to go at the former site of a Rite Aid pharmacy at 1502 Executive Drive.
The council meets next at 6:30 p.m. April 27 in council chambers.
In these 2024 file photos, St. Marys officials inspect new refuse toters and an automated garbage truck to load them.
