Lexington County Weighs Mandatory Trash Pickup Proposal Amid Community Concerns

Lexington County Considers New Trash Pickup Law

Lexington County is buzzing with discussion as a new proposal is on the table that would require mandatory curbside trash pickup for all residents. Currently, people living in unincorporated areas can choose whether or not to subscribe to trash services. This results in over 39,200 out of approximately 110,400 households opting in, with fees ranging from $20.62 to $35.18 a month. The county council passed the first reading of the ordinance on October 8, setting the stage for a more extensive debate slated for November 12 at a public hearing.

What’s at Stake?

This proposed law means that every household would need to pay for curbside pickup, which many find concerning since the actual fee has yet to be announced. Councilmember Charli Wessinger, who represents District 6, has voiced strong opposition to the ordinance. She expressed her unease about “signing a blank check,” suggesting that without knowing the costs involved, pushing this law through might be irresponsible and unfair to residents.

“People are already reaching out, saying they simply cannot afford another fee,” Wessinger told us during a recent interview. She emphasized that county taxes already finance waste management services, which many believe should be sufficient. Wessinger isn’t alone in her concerns; various constituents have raised similar points, indicating a potential divide in community support for the ordinance.

Why Mandatory Pickup?

Supporters of the new cost proposal argue that making trash pickup mandatory could assist with waste management logistics and public convenience. Lee McIntyre, the Director of Solid Waste for Lexington County, highlighted the benefits of having a standardized service. He pointed out that curbside pickup would streamline the waste collection process for both residents and drivers, noting that “If you put it in the cart at the curb, you know when it gets serviced, the trash is gone.”

McIntyre elaborated that requiring trash services for every household could also enhance efficiency for drivers who service those routes. With more reliable containers at each home, it could prevent missed pickups, especially when new or substitute drivers take on routes. This is particularly important as the demand for waste services is expected to increase as the county continues to grow.

Looking at Other Counties

Currently, only three counties in South Carolina—Richland, Marion, and Marlboro—have mandatory curbside trash pickup. The annual costs vary widely, from $228 in Marion to $368 in Richland. As Lexington County considers a similar approach, residents are left wondering how much more it could potentially cost them each month.

Community Feedback

The upcoming public hearing is expected to draw significant community interest. As residents contemplate the implications of the proposed trash pickup fee, many are eager to voice their opinions and concerns. It remains to be seen how this proposed mandate will unfold and what the final decision will be for both supporters and opponents.

As discussions continue and community feedback shapes the debate, the people of Lexington County are left pondering the future of waste management services in their area. Keep your eyes on the upcoming hearing on November 12 for the latest developments and opportunities to express your thoughts on this potential change.

For anyone interested in participating, be sure to stay informed about the proceedings. It’s crucial for everyone in the community to have their voices heard regarding issues that impact their daily lives.