The city prepares to transition trash service

The scraps from Sunday's dinner, banana peels and empty cans you should've recycled instead of thrown away - all of the garbage that you throw in the bin will now be an entity outside of the city's responsibility.
    After months of presentations from Waste Management employees, discussed at length during several city council meetings and just on the heels of the neighboring Cashmere partnering with the service - the city of Leavenworth has crafted together a contract with Waste Management that will soon become effective. The official date for the transition will be on Monday, Feb. 4 as a weekly trash collection service and every other week recycling service.
    "It's a pretty expensive business to be in. We already serve the city with recycling. This is a way to combine the services and have one provider for residents," said John Chelminiak, senior manager for Waste Management.
    According to a Waste Management press release, there is no action to worry about for garbage services and recycling will remain an optional service.
    If one is already a recycling customer, no action is needed for that either. However those who want to go green and weren't using the recycling services prior, contact (877)-466-4668 after Feb. 1. Recycling collection is available for a fee of $10.98 monthly for residents. The first day for recycling collection will fall on Feb. 11.
    "The city only offered one level of service, the 64 gallon size, and we're offering three levels at different prices so you can get a smaller or bigger cart, depending on how much the resident needs," said Chelminiak.
    Three different sizes, each with a different price tag attached, will be available: 35, 64 and 96 gallons. The current carts being used are 64 gallons and will be billed at the 64 gallon rate. Those who think a smaller or bigger cart better suit trash needs, can also call the number listed above to make the change. If satisfied with the current 64 gallon cart, no action is needed.
    "I think the biggest difference people will notice is just the day of service. We'll be serving all of the residents on the same day (Mondays)," said Chelminiak. "It'll be a nice advantage, because everyone will know the day their trash will be picked up. It will also help with number of trips trucks will be making in the city."
    Bear resistant carts, bulky waste collection and three yard containers for small residential clean ups are also an option for an extra cost. Low income residents, senior and disabled residents have special rates offered and should contact the city of Leavenworth to apply 548-5275.
    "We're thrilled to take over the service. We've got a long relationship with the area and we're excited to have Leavenworth join the Waste Management family," said Chelminiak.