Hoping to hear from the public, Gardnerville Town Board members found themselves facing an empty room on May 5, during what was the first of two public hearings on a staggered 3.5-percent increase in the town's trash rates.
Board members won't make their final decision until the second public hearing in June.
If approved, the change would start with a 1.5-percent increase in July, then finish with a 2-percent increase in January 2010.
Town Manager Jim Park said the increased revenue, approximately $26,657 annually, would balance the town's health and sanitation fund and increase the capital reserves used for equipment replacements.
Presently, a Gardnerville household pays $49.75 per quarter for trash service. If the increases are approved, that fee would rise to $50.50 in July, and to $51.50 in January.
Commercial rates would also increase.
The cost of picking up a 2-yard dumpster would rise from $21.63 each pickup to $21.96 in July, and to $22.40 in January.
The monthly rental rate for a 2-yard dumpster would increase from $15 to $16 in July, and to $17 in January.
Park pointed out that Gardnerville offers some of the lowest trash rates in the area, but he was concerned about a rate hike at the Douglas County transfer station. He said rates are much cheaper at the Carson City landfill, but that longer trips eventually take a toll on town trucks and also require more man hours.
Gardnerville board meetings are 4:30 p.m. the first Tuesday of the month in the town hall office, 1407 Highway 395.
