Switch to Single Trash Hauler Irks Upper Nazareth Residents

Losing the right to choose their own trash hauler has some Upper Nazareth Township residents questioning the fairness of the switch.

“I’m giving up my control to you guys, and I don’t want to do it,” said Daniels Road resident Mike Edgar during the Oct. 17 Board of Supervisors meeting. "This is my responsibility, not yours. I don’t want to give it to you."

According to the 2010 census, Upper Nazareth's population grew to 6,231, up from 4,686 in 2000. Because , curbside recycling is now a requirement.

To streamline the operation, about 11 companies currently contracted by individual households in Upper Nazareth will bid on a contract. The company awarded the contract will collect -- for the entire township -- both recycling and trash.

That's the sticking point for Edgar, who wondered why the township couldn't just provide recycling services.

"This is a sign of the times," Supervisor James Augustine said, adding that switching to one hauler is the most efficient option. "We will be able to control [pick-up] times -- how many, what days, and quality of service. We will have more control with one hauler and residents will probably pay less."

Edgar and other residents in attendance, however, feel that forcing one hauler on the entire township would be unfair -- and would result in higher bills -- to those who don't put out as much garbage.

Cost is the biggest concern for residents, according to a recent survey on the hauler issue. The environment is the second major concern, Augustine noted.

Choice, according to Augustine, came in last.

When asked about plans to help seniors, Augustine said the township will look into a variety of options, like using performance grant money to help offset costs.

In a related issue, it was noted that Tuskes Community Park lacks recycling containers. The Board of Supervisors agreed to investigate and rectify the matter.