(ANGOLA) - The Angola Common Council approved a five-year extension of the city's solid waste and recycling contract with Republic Services Monday night, holding customer rates steady during the first year of the new agreement.
Mayor Dave Martin said the original contract allowed for annual rate increases tied to the Consumer Price Index, which could have resulted in a roughly 7% hike. City officials negotiated that down to a 3.4% increase in later years, with no increase in year one. Any future rate changes will be decided by the Common Council.
Republic Services Municipal Manager Kevin Boyce praised the agreement and the city's negotiating stance, calling it aggressive while noting the final terms keep Angola in line with long-term market rates. He also thanked the city for its continued partnership.
Council members voiced support for Republic's local service before approving the extension unanimously. Councilman Chuck Dowe said local employees "do a wonderful job," a sentiment echoed by Councilman Jerry McDermid.
Martin added that Boyce, who assumed oversight of the account nine months ago, has been responsive to city concerns.
In other business, the Angola Common Council approved a $30,000 transfer to the general fund toward the purchase of a new city vehicle.
Martin said the city is negotiating a possible two-for-one deal.
Council also voted to cancel outstanding warrants totaling $542.15 for unpaid city debts. Nineteen individuals benefited from the action, with an average forgiven amount of $28.50.
The Angola Common Council will meet again at 7 p.m. Feb. 16, when Mayor Martin is scheduled to deliver his State of the City address.