ST. CLOUD, Fla. – The cost of residential trash pickup in St. Cloud increased effective Oct. 1.
Residential curbside collection now costs $33.16 per month, and city officials say they plan to raise the rate by roughly 3% annually for at least two more years to keep pace with growth and maintenance needs.
The St. Cloud Transfer Station on Peghorn Way is the city-recommended option for residents with large items.
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Many, including resident Yohanne Pimental, say they are using the facility more often because it is less expensive than curbside pickup for bulky waste, which is usually charged by weight.
“It’s going up and I’m not happy about it,” Pimental said.
Pimental added that he hopes some of the additional funds will be allocated to garbage truck maintenance after noticing what he described as a rust-colored stain in front of his home that appeared to come from a collection vehicle.
“It really worries people not knowing what’s being leaked and disposed in their neighborhoods,” he said.
Andrew Sullivan, Senior Public Information Manager for the City of St. Cloud, said the city has budgeted $1.3 million for fleet maintenance this year.
“We’re spending money. We have received already two new side loading trash trucks. We’re actually looking to purchase three more to complement our fleet,” said Sullivan. He acknowledged that stains or leaks from trash collection vehicles occur occasionally and said the causes range from leaking waste to mechanical issues. He advised residents who observe such incidents to contact the city.
The city website provides additional information about the trash collection system and current disposal fees.