Dothan Commission Approves Garbage Fee
By: Jamiese Price
Updated: December 4, 2012
The Dothan commission, on a unanimous vote, decided Tuesday to impose a monthly garbage collection fee of $14.75 per household. Senior citizens who rely on social security as their sole source of income will be exempt from the charge. The increase takes effect on or about March 1, 2013.
City manager Mike West claims the increase is needed to pay for expansion of the current landfill. "We must figure out away to pay for this and uphold the financial integrity of the city," said West last month, following the unveiling of the fee plan. Sewer costs are also cited a reason.
It's the first time in city history that a garbage pickup fee has been charged. The extra amount will be added to monthly utility bills. Residents who live in and around The Highlands subdivision and are served by Wiregrass Electric will see the garbage fee reflected on their water bill.
The vote approving the increase was 5-0 with District Two Commissioner Amos Newsome not present.
