Table of Contents
Updated 9/5/2024
Magoffin County’s Trash Contract Dilemma: Local Jobs at Risk Amid Contract Negotiations
Magoffin County is approaching a critical deadline as its trash collection contract with Rumpke, the local waste management company, nears expiration. With only two fiscal court meetings left to negotiate a new deal, the county could face the loss of six full-time and one part-time jobs—all held by local residents.
Rumpke currently employs these local workers at wages of $17-$18 per hour for non-CDL holders and $20-$21 per hour for CDL-certified drivers. If the contract is not renewed, these jobs could disappear, affecting the local economy and the families who rely on them.
Appalachia Insider spoke with Robert Bailey, a 10-year Rumpke employ. Mr. Bailey said that the loss of this contract will have dire consequences for himself and his family. He stated, “I can’t imagine losing this position. Magoffin will be worse off without these jobs.”
Magoffin County’s Trash Contract Dilemma: Low Participation Rates Contribute to Financial Challenges
Despite the essential services provided by Rumpke, only around 3,682 out of approximately 4,820 homes in Magoffin County are currently paying for trash collection. This low participation rate has placed financial strain on the system, prompting Rumpke to propose rate increases.
The proposed new rates would increase fees to $19 per month for seniors, up 73.52% from the current $10.95, and to $23 per month for regular residential customers, a 30.46% increase from the current $17.63. Rumpke cites rising operational costs, including a monthly fuel expense of about $10,000, as reasons for the proposed rate adjustments. Notably, Rumpke does not charge late fees, providing some flexibility for residents.
Magoffin County’s Trash Contract Dilemma: Proposal to Tie Fees to Utility Bills Sparks Debate
To address the issue of low participation, Rumpke has suggested tying trash collection fees to residents’ water or electric bills. This proposal aims to ensure a more consistent payment stream, but it has raised concerns among residents about higher utility bills and potential service disconnections for non-payment.
Magoffin County’s Trash Contract Dilemma: Possible Contract Shift to Floyd County Raises Additional Concerns
Rumors have surfaced that Magoffin County is in discussions with neighboring Floyd County to potentially take over the waste management contract. This change could lead to new policies, such as a maximum trash allotment for residents and the removal of the local dump station and addition of possible self-dumping fees, which could further inconvenience residents and lead to additional costs.
Magoffin County’s Trash Contract Dilemma: Environmental and Safety Risks Considered
The potential loss of Rumpke’s services has also raised concerns about environmental and safety issues. Without a reliable waste collection service, illegal dumping could increase, leading to environmental hazards. Additionally, there is concern that residents may turn to illegal burning of waste, raising the risk of forest fires in the area.
Magoffin County’s Trash Contract Dilemma: Critical Meetings Ahead for County’s Decision
The upcoming fiscal court meetings will be crucial in determining the future of waste management in Magoffin County. Discussions are expected to explore alternative waste management options, possible negotiations with Floyd County, and further talks with Rumpke to find a solution that addresses the financial and logistical challenges.
Magoffin County’s Trash Contract Dilemma: Awaiting a Resolution
With only two meetings left before the contract expires, the county faces a challenging decision that could impact local jobs, service costs, and environmental safety. The community is closely watching the developments, aware that the outcome could affect both the local economy and the daily lives of many residents.
Stay tuned to Appalachia Insider for ongoing updates on this developing story.
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