The primary agenda item was the debate over a new trash and recycling contract, involving proposals from Republic Services and Waste Management. A detailed comparison of the two revealed distinct operational methodologies and financial structures. Republic Services offered a pricing arrangement inclusive of a second cart for both trash and recycling, without requiring rental trucks during the transition, which was seen as a cost-saving benefit. Waste Management, on the other hand, proposed dedicated routes for residential pickups, which some saw as potentially more efficient but more expensive.

A notable aspect of the discussion was the potential transition from weekly to bi-weekly recycling, a change that could save the town between $300,000 and $400,000 annually after the first year. Despite the financial allure, the board expressed concerns about the impact on service quality and community satisfaction. One member emphasized the importance of maintaining high service levels, suggesting that while cost savings are important, they should not come at the expense of essential services residents rely on.

The debate also touched on the costs associated with bulky item disposal, which varied between the two providers. Republic Services’ proposal included high fees for individual bulk items, prompting discussions about alternative disposal solutions, such as community-shared dumpster bags. This led to broader conversations about aligning Reading’s services with those of neighboring towns, many of which have successfully implemented bi-weekly recycling without public outcry.

Amidst these discussions, board members considered the fairness of the cost structures, particularly concerning larger families, who generate more waste. Some members argued that larger families should not expect smaller households to subsidize their waste disposal, although it was noted that families in larger homes typically pay higher taxes, contributing more to the town’s revenue.

A key point of contention was the potential imposition of penalties for missed pickups. The board proposed introducing 19 new penalties to address service lapses, including a $100 fine for each missed house, in an effort to improve accountability. This proposal was part of a larger effort to address past service issues with Republic, as residents had previously reported frustrations with missed recycling pickups and delayed responses.

As the board sought to balance fiscal responsibility with service quality, discussions included the possibility of an override vote to maintain weekly recycling services beyond the first year. The members acknowledged that such a vote would allow the community to participate in the decision-making process and ensure transparency.

Public engagement played a role in the meeting, with residents expressing varied opinions on the proposed changes. While some supported the move to bi-weekly recycling, others emphasized the importance of maintaining weekly services, particularly in light of recent substantial community expenditures. The board underscored the importance of ongoing communication with residents to manage expectations and facilitate a smooth transition.