News Summary
Grand Rapids is evaluating a single hauler trash collection system for single-family homes and small multi-unit buildings. The proposal, aimed at reducing environmental impacts and streamlining services, includes community engagement sessions for resident feedback. The city, currently using a Pay As You Throw waste collection system, is exploring improvements based on studies indicating support for the shift. If approved, the transition may begin by July 2027, allowing residents to save money based on their waste management practices.
Grand Rapids is exploring the possibility of introducing a single hauler trash collection system for single-family homes and small multi-unit buildings. This proposal aims to streamline trash pickup services by designating the city as the sole provider.
As part of the decision-making process, the city is hosting two community engagement sessions for residents to voice their feedback on the proposal. The first session is scheduled for September 15 at 6 p.m. at Sibley Elementary School, and the second session will take place on September 18 at 6 p.m. at Grand Rapids Public School University.
The main goals of the proposed system include lowering environmental impacts, reducing the number of heavy trucks operating on neighborhood streets, and enhancing the overall quality of trash collection services. The city is actively seeking input from residents, rental property associations, and existing private haulers before finalizing the proposal.
Currently, Grand Rapids has 13 licensed private trash haulers providing services, with approximately 90% of residential trash pickup managed by the city. This leaves about 6,500 homes relying on private services for their trash collection needs. As part of its ongoing waste management program, the city implemented a “Pay As You Throw” waste collection system in 2010, which charges residents based on the size of their refuse cart and only when it is collected.
The refuse cart options come with varying costs: a 32-gallon cart is priced at $3.63 per collection; a 64-gallon cart costs $6.05; and a 96-gallon cart is available for $8.47 per collection. The existing collection system has been deemed effective yet has identified areas for improvement, prompting city officials to explore potential modifications, including the possibility of incorporating a food scrap and organics collection system to further minimize landfill waste.
To inform its decision, the city conducted operational and rate studies in 2020 and 2024 that recommended considering a transition to a single-hauler system. Preliminary survey results indicate that between 75% and 80% of participants favor the proposed shift.
If the proposal is approved, the implementation of the single-hauler program is expected to commence by July 2027. The Public Works Director has characterized the current “Pay As You Throw” system as fair, equitable, and cost-effective, suggesting it allows residents to save money based on their waste management practices.
In response to community feedback, the Public Works Department plans to present its recommendations to the City Commission in October. The engagement sessions provide a platform for residents to express their opinions, ensuring that their voices play a crucial role in determining the future of trash collection in Grand Rapids.
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Grand Rapids Considers Becoming Sole Trash Service Provider
Additional Resources
- MLive: Grand Rapids Seeks Public Input on Proposed Trash Collection Changes
- Wikipedia: Waste Management
- WZZM13: Grand Rapids Trash Pickup Proposal Feedback
- Google Search: Grand Rapids trash collection
- Wood TV: Grand Rapids Sets Public Meetings for New Trash Proposal
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Waste
- Fox 17: Grand Rapids Considering Transition to Single Trash Hauler
- Google News: Grand Rapids single hauler
Author: STAFF HERE GRANDRAPIDS WRITER
GRAND RAPIDS STAFF WRITER The GRAND RAPIDS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGrandRapids.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Grand Rapids, Kent County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as ArtPrize, Festival of the Arts, and World of Winter. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce and Grand Rapids Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in furniture, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Steelcase, Spectrum Health, and Meijer. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
