From The Tribune staff reports
BIRMINGHAM — The Jefferson County Commission approved an emergency contract amendment with AmWaste, the current franchise holder for residential garbage pickup in unincorporated Jefferson County.
This amendment allows for the company to base its rates on fuel costs, based on the Alabama Department of Transportation Fuel Index, as well as the consumer price index. The County will also do a quarterly review and adjustment of rates with AmWaste, meaning if gas prices go down, these rates could go back down.
Not news we enjoy sharing, but you should know there is an increase coming in garbage service costs. The contract amendment and news release can be found in the link. The County will be reviewing these rates quarterly with AmWaste. https://t.co/VnR8nsKgvn
— Jefferson County, AL (@JeffCoToday) June 10, 2022
Jefferson County contracted with AmWaste after a public bid process 1.5 years ago, where they were the lowest bidder. The original contract allowed for an increase not to exceed 3 percent annually for inflation, that provision was amended to an increase based on the consumer price index and fuel index. The inflation rate in 2021 was 7 percent, and that, along with skyrocketing fuel prices, has created an unsustainable business position for AmWaste. The County faced a situation with potential delays in collection, which would create a public health situation.
“We know the citizens of Jefferson County are getting hit hard with inflation and gas prices, and we certainly don’t want to add to it, but this was the most fair and equitable way for the company to continue to service residents during this difficult time,” Jefferson County, County Manager Cal Markert said. “We are working on longer-term solutions, but this will at least keep the service in place until we’ve had time to thoroughly vet our options.”
AmWaste plans the following increase for current residential subscribers. If gas prices go down, these rates could be lowered in the future.
Service | Prior Quarterly Rate | New Quarterly Rate |
Single Family Residential | $45.15 | $75.70 |
Single Family with Yard Waste | $58.68 | $97.08 |
Back-Door Service (non-disabled) | $76.20 | $105.75 |
Back-Door Service (disabled) | $45.15 | $75.70 |
Additional Cart (No Change) | $46.59 | $46.59 |
For questions, about the contract amendment, please call the County Manager’s Office. For questions about service or billing, please contact Amwaste directly at 1-888-449-6277 or customercare@amwasteusa.com.