The Cost of Trash

The organization is responsible for collecting what you throw away is helping people save money. The Oneida Herkimer Solid Waste Authority helps municipalities in the search for trash collections agencies. The Village of Herkimer worked with the solid waste authority in 2006 to develop a long-term plan to save people money. "A number of years ago we actually developed a bid specification for them to bid their collection most efficiently. It included options for their residents to either utilize totters or by bags, it's a pay as your throw program so it's a very equitable system." The system is designed to cover 100 percent of the cost, that means Herkimer residents only pay for their waste. Meanwhile the village came to an agreement with the waste authority which also will keep money in the tax payers' pockets. "The Oneida Herkimer Solid Waste Authority advising us that because of the way we improved the system back in November of 2007 that the rates will remain stable at least through next year." Budgetary constraints will force many municipalities to make tough decisions with essential services but the village of Herkimer says one service is here to stay. "Well they get a good service at a good rate which is staying stable which is great and the way other costs are going."