Politics & Government

Getting Trash Hauled Away in Marion Could Get More Expensive

The Marion City Council will be considering whether to add an additional $1 fee to garbage collecting and adding restrictions to the discount program.

Marion City Council Member Craig Adamson said a garbage collection discount program has not been managed efficiently.

The discount saves $5 for disabled and residents over the age of 65, but since the program does not distinguish between low income residents, Adamson said many residents who can afford the full $12 monthly fee aren't paying. The program costs the city approximately $100,000 a year.

That's why the Marion City Council will be voting on whether to add more restrictions to the program for next year, in addition to a $1 rate increase for everyone.

Find out what's happening in Marionwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Public Services Director Ryan Miller said that providing the collection service has become more costly due to increased fuel costs and equipment costs.

Under the current proposal all residents currently benefiting from the discount will continue to receive it, but income based restrictions will be put in the application process for the future.

Find out what's happening in Marionwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

However, Adamson said he'd like to make the beneficiaries of the program re-apply next year to ensure those that can afford the standard rate are paying it.

"It’s my thought we should go back and make sure the people who are receiving the discount need to reapply," he said. "Maybe everyone who's on it deserves it, but I  am going to go on a limb and say that is not the case."

The Marion City Council will be meeting today at 5:30 p.m. 

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