Portage will seek new garbage collection proposals
By John Robbins Post-Tribune correspondent June 25, 2012 4:30PM
Updated: June 25, 2012 9:22PM
PORTAGE — The Portage Board of Works on Monday rejected proposals from Waste Management and Republic Services for changes in the garbage pick-up services.
The city had requested proposals as part of a major overhaul in the way Portage collects garbage from city residents. Mayor James Snyder said the earlier call for proposals was not specific enough in certain details, especially in the specifications regarding container types wanted by the city.
Snyder also wanted to clarify that new contracts were not cancelling existing contracts but would replace contracts as they expired. The Board of Works approved issuing a new request for sealed bids from service providers that would address the shortcomings of the earlier request for proposals. New contracts will be expected to commence April 1, 2013.
Another piece of the city garbage overhaul effort fell into place as the mayor announced that Valparaiso had given to Portage — at no cost — two 2005 garbage trucks with tipper equipment installed that will be compatible with the anticipated future method of garbage collection.
“These are newer than any garbage truck currently in use by Portage,” said Snyder. “Valparaiso gave the trucks to Portage because we work together; we’re part of a team.”
In other business, Greg Adair, Marc Mihalik and Mike Laney were sworn in as firefighters. Adair was formerly with Washington Township Fire Department and has worked for Portage since Jul 2011. Mihalik joined the fire department in December, and Laney has served since March.
