Trash Discussion Continues in West Chester

The West Chester Public Works Committee recommended that council deny a bid by A.J. Blosenski to privatize the borough’s trash service beginning in 2012 on Monday.  According to borough manager Ernie McNeely the move could have potentially saved the borough $85,000 next year.

“We’ve got to get control of these costs,” said West Chester council member John Manion.  “You’re right; $85,000 isn’t a lot when you look at the big picture.  But, in two months we’re going to have 180 angry people in here again if we have to raise taxes.”

Last December, the borough raised property taxes 20 percent in order to cover its budget deficit.  During that conversation several council members said that there would be a concentrated effort to lower those taxes the next year.

One of the ways the borough had tried to lower costs was through privatizing trash service.

“My concern is where we would be three years down the road,” said council member Tom Paxson.  “This bid would be for a three year contract.  In three years, we would probably sell off all our equipment, and there would be no way to go back into the trash business.”

Paxson added, “I wish there was a way to see what this would cost us in year four.”

“I think through the bidding process we have shown that we are more than competitive,” said council member Susan Bayne.  “Whenever you send something out for bid there’s always one that’s high, and one that’s low.  Our guys were right on pace with the middle pack.”

Paxson added, “When you get four bids up here and one bid down here, you’re not getting the same amount of service.  I just think it’s common sense to not jump in on this right now.”

However, the full council will discuss the matter at next Tuesday’s work session meeting, and then they will probably vote on it at the regular meeting on Wednesday.