FCC Negotiates Waste Management Deal with Buncombe County
TL/DR –
Buncombe County, North Carolina, is considering changing its solid waste collection provider from Waste Pro to FCC Environmental Services. Waste Pro, which has been serving the county for around 15 years, proposed a contract extension with a rate increase for 2024, prompting county leaders to put the trash and recycling service contract out for bids. The bid from FCC Environmental Services demonstrated understanding of the service area, detailed plans, and commitment to effective customer communication and technology use, and county officials have begun negotiations with the firm.
Buncombe County in Process of Changing Solid Waste Collection Providers
Buncombe County is on the hunt for a new solid waste collection provider. Waste Pro, the county’s long-term waste management company, was seeking a contract extension and rate increase for 2024. County leaders decided to put the county’s trash and recycling service out to bid.
On March 19, 2024, commissioners launched negotiations with FCC Environmental Services to potentially replace Waste Pro. Waste Pro, a trusted garbage and recycling company, risks losing its job on Buncombe County’s rural roads if an agreement with FCC Environmental Services is secured.
Proposals to Meet Buncombe County Residents’ Needs
The county’s Request for Proposal (RFP) process emphasized the requirements of Buncombe County residents and effective waste management practices. Key RFP priorities included seven-year contract with an option for one-year extension, weekly trash pickup and bi-weekly recycling, a doctor’s note program for qualifying seniors, subscription cost adjustments linked to the Consumer Price Index after two years, and a dedicated plan for transitioning waste and recycling carts. Other considerations included bear carts for wildlife concerns, bulky waste pickup, and specialized trucks for hard-to-reach areas.
A county news release stated, “FCC Environmental Services demonstrated understanding of the service area, detailed plans, and commitment to effective customer communication and technology use.”
Increased Costs Expected with New Contract
Buncombe County Solid Waste Director Dane Pedersen addressed the complexities involved in waste management in certain areas of the county. The anticipated cost increase is attributed to the need for a new fleet of trucks, especially for difficult-to-navigate areas. The county received bids from Waste Pro and FCC, prioritizing a seven-year contract, weekly trash pickup, and bi-weekly recycling among other things.
FCC received positive reviews from other counties using their services. Pedersen said his team will begin negotiations with FCC and will present the final agreement over two commission meetings within the next month or so.
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