Sebastian residents will soon see their trash collection bills decrease after the City Council approved an amendment to the Waste Management contract.
Starting October 1, 2024, residents will see a monthly rate of $16.25 plus a $0.98 franchise fee, totaling $17.23, a decrease from current rates. The lower rate will remain in place until 2027.
As part of the agreement, Waste Management has offered the city a $25,000 for an annual scholarship incentive. Mayor Ed Dodd expressed excitement about the additional funds.
“We can use these funds for special programs that will be identified at a future meeting,” Dodd told Sebastian Daily.
The question of how to allocate the $25,000 has sparked discussion among council members. While high school scholarships were initially proposed, Councilman Bob McPartlan suggested extending assistance to needy seniors, such as covering trash collection fees. Councilman Fred Jones also mentioned using some money to aid seniors with home repairs.
City Manager Brian Benton said a public workshop will be scheduled to determine the program’s specifics, including staff involvement, timelines, and recipient eligibility criteria.
Debbie Perez, Government Affairs Manager for Waste Management, explained that the $25,000 incentive is a common practice in other areas of Florida.
“We offered this 25,000 because we’ve done it in other counties and municipalities for scholarships,” said Perez.
Sebastian Daily will provide updates on the upcoming workshop, where the council will discuss ideas on how the money should be allocated.
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