Augusta garbage service decision escapes commissioners

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WJBF) – Augusta needs to figure out a plan on how it’s going to pick up trash.

“At this point, we don’t have a viable answer. I don’t see anything passing today, nor do I see it passing next Tuesday. What I see is to deny it, and everything will be re-bid,” said Commissioner Alvin Mason.

Back in February, commissioners rejected a proposal for a new garbage contract for one of the city’s three pickup zones because it raised costs and reduced service.

The administrator proposed extending the current agreement in all three zones until the end of next year, allowing time for the city to rebid the service.

“We just need to extend it, go ahead and make all three contracts equal, end them all at the same time, and begin them all at the same time,” said Commissioner Bobby Williams.

But under that proposal, the city would use $1.4 million out of reserves to offset increased costs of service.

“Actually, take $1.4 million out of the coffers to pay the difference, which is I don’t understand that mindset whatsoever,” said Commissioner Wayne Guilfoyle.

Commissioners tabled discussion of garbage service at Tuesday’s meeting, but city leaders saying they don’t want to wait until next year to re-bid the service.

“I think we need to take a holistic look at this. Let’s put the entire county out for bid,” said Mayor Pro-Tem Brandon Garrett.

“Are we back against the walls the contracts end in July?”

“This is what it looks like when you continually kick the can down the road,” said Garrett.

The can is being kicked, and now, the city has to decide on how to pick it up.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJBF.