TOLEDO, OH (Toledo News Now) - The mayor's office says scheduled increases to Toledo's refuse and recycling collection fee this year and next year will be absorbed by the city. At least one councilman saying that is not the call for the mayor to make.
The five year contract with Republic Services through the agreement with Lucas County includes an annual 3 percent increase in rates.
The mayor's office says the rate will be held at $8.95/month and $5/month for those with a homestead exemption. That will cost the city $80,000 this year, and $250,000 in 2013.
"We're at a point we have a balanced budget. We have a small surplus. We believe raising fees for our residents at this time is not the appropriate thing to do," said Deputy Mayor Steve Herwat.
Councilman Mike Collins calls it a political shell game considering Mayor Mike Bell is gearing up for a re-election bid next year. Collins is calling on the mayor to present legislation to council to authorize the city to absorb that increase.
