GARNETT — Garnett city residents will pay an extra dollar per month for trash service starting with their February bills. The Anderson County Review reported that on a split vote, city commissioners approved the increase to shore up reserves for the refuse department and to be ready for possible increases in fuel prices. City manager Joyce Martin said the city’s trash service is barebones and barely covers its annual expenses. Last year, the service grossed $1,000, she said. The increase would put the city’s rates in the middle of rates charged by neighboring and comparable cities, she said. City Commissioner Greg Gwin voted against the increase. Gwin said he has been researching private trash collection companies and wants to see if it’s cost-effective for the city to operate its own trash service. Commissioner Chris Maynard said the city should look at Gwin’s proposal but later during the budgeting process.
Wednesday, Jan. 19, 6 p.m.
