Shane W Potter

SLIPPERY ROCK — A month after residents raised concerns about its garbage hauling, borough council decided Tuesday, Sept. 2, that it would move forward in pursuit of a new contract.

Council voted unanimously Monday to formally authorize advertisement of a request for proposals for a new contract.

“I’ve had about 30 people talk to me about this,” Councilman Jeff Campbell said about the past month.

The topic was originally discussed by council on Aug. 5 after two residents expressed their discontent, citing recurring instances of garbage not getting picked up and unpleasant customer service.

Council unanimously voted during the meeting to notify Aikens Refuse, the company currently handling garbage hauling, that it will be putting out a new garbage contract for bid.

Borough solicitor Rebecca Black also reminded council during the August meeting there are fewer garbage companies now than before and the borough cannot exclude any company from the bid unless they are deemed irresponsible.

Before the vote, council discussed the final draft of the new contract.

Councilman Paul Lueken asked if more language had been added to ensure positive customer service. Borough manager Christian Laskey said while there isn’t a specific section, different parts of the contract specifically refer to customer service.

Advertisement will be done as soon as possible with the hope that the bids will be opened during the Oct. 7 council meeting, Laskey said.

Aikens Refuse, despite the lack of renewal, is able to bid on the new contract, and may be selected again.

“It’s all in who has the lowest bid and who can provide the best service at the lowest price for our residents,” Laskey previously told the Butler Eagle in August.