Calhoun County supervisors were asked to consider a $2 a month increase on garbage fees due to a projected $50,000 loss this fiscal year.
Solid Waste Director Dan Reese presented his budget proposal for next fiscal year to the board Monday morning in Pittsboro. He explained that over the past six years the number of accounts billed has dropped considerably, both commercial and residential, as have collection rates.
Reese said based on current revenue projections for the final two months of the fiscal year, the county’s solid waste operation will lose at least $50,000, but that could be much more when auditors force solid waste to pay into the general fund for accounting work done by the chancery clerk’s office.
“We’ve got enough cash to make it through another year, but then we’ll be in a danger zone,” Reese told the supervisors. “I’m suggesting an increase. I know that’s not popular, but it’s needed.”
Reese said other counties in the region are having similar problems with operating costs, especially fuel, continuing to go up. He said Monroe and Itawamba counties recently increased their monthly rates to $13. Union went to $10, “but they’re closer to the landfill,” Reese said.
He projected a $1 increase would generate $68,000, but suggested a $2 increase would be better long term.
“To me we have to raise at least $1 to break even, or more to have a little padding,” Reese said. “I would suggest you do the $2 and we would be good for years to come.”
“That’s still much cheaper than any private company could offer,” Reese said.
He said he had already discussed the potential increase with Bruce and Calhoun City mayors and told the board to keep in mind the equipment needs that exist.
“Maintenance is killing us lately because our equipment has aged,” Reese said.
The last garbage increase from the county was in 2007.
“For someone to come to your house and haul all your garbage off for only $10-12 a month, that is a good deal,” Reese said.
The board took the matter under advisement.
Other news from the meeting:
•The board approved a request from Chodie Myers to take part of CR 416 off the state aid list and add part of CR 423. The purpose of this change is to allow use of LSBP funds on Duncan Hill Creek where a box culvert is needed.
•The board agreed to look into the possibility of providing funds to build a new concession stand at the multi-purpose center in Pittsboro. Extension Agent Trent Barnett said the current portable building is “in bad shape” and a permanent structure is desired.
He had acquired two quotes for a metal building, the lowest being $15,524. He said they would use volunteer and county labor to do a lot of the work.
*Board accepted 2013 land and personal rolls.
*Board approved change in assessments as presented by Tax Assessor Bill Malone.
*Board approved $3,200 allocation to all fire departments.
*Sandy Rogers with Communicare requested a 3% increase to their budget for next fiscal year.
*Contracts were approved with Ausbern Contractors for soil-cement mixing and Robbie Robinson, Inc. for striping for a State Aid Project on CR 300.
*County’s service agreement with Parkwood Behavioral Facility was renewed.
*Ramona Wells hired to replace Ann McKibben as part time Lift bus driver.
