What trash company is the Merriam City Council considering?
GFL Environmental, Inc. was the lowest bidder of the five bids received.
I’ve never heard of GFL Environmental, Inc. How do I know they are a successful and productive company?
Rest assured, many of our neighboring communities (particularly Westwood, Fairway, and Roeland Park) use GFL Environmental, Inc. for single hauler trash service. Additionally, GFL already services multiple HOAs in Merriam, along with some commercial properties. They have been a business in Merriam, Johnson County, and the State of Kansas in good standing with all of their licenses, fees, and permits up to date.
Why isn't the City Council considering KC Disposal as the provider?
KC Disposal did not submit a bid for the City’s trash service contract. The City can only consider proposals from companies that participated in the bidding process.
How much would it cost me per month, and how will I pay for it?
The charge would appear on your biannual property tax bill. We anticipate it would be around $23 per month.
Why does the City think this is a good idea?
We heard from you! Many residents have been asking City Councilmembers to explore this option for years. In fact, the 2024 Community Satisfaction Survey showed that 65% of respondents support the exploration of a City-wide contract for trash and recycling services. The goal of implementing a single hauler program is to lower residents' overall trash service costs, while reducing the number of trash trucks on City streets. This will help decrease wear and tear on roads, reduce traffic congestion, and improve air quality. Additionally, the City will be able to negotiate more competitive and consistent rates for all residents, ensuring that everyone benefits.
Can I opt out of this service if I’m happy with my current trash provider?
No, the service is required and provided for all residents. While we understand some residents may be satisfied with their current hauler, the City has determined that a single hauler system will provide the most efficient, cost-effective service for everyone.
Will the hauler raise rates significantly after offering a good price up front?
No. The contract locks in rates for five years, with only a limited annual price increase tied to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for garbage and trash collection. This ensures that any price increases are controlled, predictable, and in line with inflation, giving residents confidence in stable and fair pricing.
I’ve had to switch haulers before because of poor service. How does the City ensure quality service under this contract?
The City’s contract will include specific performance standards. If the hauler fails to meet these standards, they will be fined. If service issues are not resolved in a timely manner, the City has the option to break the contract and put the service out for rebid, ensuring that residents are always receiving reliable service.
Will I have to pay separately for recycling and yard waste pickup?
No! The new program includes trash, recycling, and yard waste pickup in a single, all-inclusive price. You won't have to pay extra for recycling or yard waste collection.
I don’t have trash service right now. Will I be required to join this program?
Yes, all residents in Merriam are required to have trash service with a licensed hauler. This program is designed to ensure that everyone complies with the City’s existing regulations, which require regular trash service.
I am worried this eliminates market competition.
Rest assured, the bidding process for the hauler contract was competitive. In fact, four different companies put in five different bids for this program, which promoted competition and helped keep costs reasonable.
I’m on a fixed income and can’t afford any price increases. Will this program be more expensive for me?
The program is designed to provide cost savings for all residents, including those on fixed incomes. In particular, those who have had difficulty negotiating lower rates with private haulers will likely see significant savings. For residents who already have a senior rate or similar discounts, the program should be comparable or even more affordable.
I am disabled and have negotiated with my current hauler to pick up my trash at the house instead of having to bring it to the curb. Will that still be possible?
Yes, if you are physically unable to take your trash to the curb, you will still be able to request house-side pickup at no additional charge. We are committed to ensuring accessibility for all residents.
I don’t need a large trash bin. Can I choose a different size one?
With the proposed contract, there are two bin size options - 65 gallons (default size) and 95 gallons. When the program rolls out, you’ll have the option to select your preferred bin size at no additional charge. If you decide to switch bin sizes later on, a small change-out fee may apply.
Why isn’t there a 35-gallon bin option?
GFL does not stock 35-gallon carts and only offers 65- and 96-gallon options. Their new side-loading trucks are designed for larger carts, as smaller ones frequently fall into the truck.
Will I be charged less for using a smaller bin or more for a larger one?
No, the price will be the same for all residents regardless of the bin size. The fee is designed to cover the costs of the service, including collection, transport, and processing. The difference in bin size is minimal when it comes to cost, as the primary factors are the number of trucks and crews needed to provide the service.
What is the weekly limit for yard waste bags?
GFL will collect of up to 10 bags, bundles and/or rigid containers of yard waste weekly.
What happens if I move? Do I need to return my bins?
If you move, you simply leave the bins at the property. There will be no additional charge for bin pickup or return. The next resident will be provided with the bins.
What if I have special waste disposal needs, like large items or bulk pickup?
The proposed contract includes (at no extra charge) three large item pickups per month. Once we get more details on this, we will make sure to communicate that to you, including details of what is and isn’t allowed. Additionally, the City has no plans to adjust our current large item pickup service, but as we see how well this contractual pickup works, we may adjust that in the future.
Will there be any changes to pickup days or times?
Pickup days and times may vary depending on the hauler’s route schedules. However, the City will work closely with the hauler to ensure that schedules are convenient and consistent. You will be notified of any changes in your pickup schedule. Additionally, all three services – trash, recycling, and yard waste, will be picked up at your residence on the same day.
How will the City ensure that residents are informed about this new program?
The City will provide residents with clear, timely information about this new program, including how to make an initial bin selection and how the program will work moving forward. From then, the Hauler will be required to communicate with you, at least annually. Notifications will be sent through mail, email, on the City website, and in the Highlight’s Magazine to ensure that everyone has the information they need to transition smoothly. Subscribe to our weekly e-Merriam newsletter to stay informed.
When will we make the switch and how will that be communicated?
The switch to the new single hauler program will take place in November 2026. We understand that clear communication is key to a smooth transition. The City will notify all residents well in advance with detailed information about the program, including what to expect and important dates. You will receive updates through multiple channels, including mail, email, the City website, social media, and the Highlights magazine. We’ll also host informational sessions and provide resources to help you understand the new process, including how to select your preferred bin size, report any issues, and get answers to any questions. Rest assured, we’ll ensure you have all the information you need to make the transition as easy as possible.
Will the city help negotiate easy service cancellation & receptacle returns for existing companies providing service or will each household be responsible for that process independently?
Yes, the City will communicate the plan for retuning existing receptacles. All of the existing haulers are aware we are going through this process and are on the lookout for instructions.
Who pays the cancellation fees if I have to end my current trash service?
You won’t have to pay a cancellation fee. When the City chooses a single trash provider, other companies will no longer be allowed to operate residential service. Since they legally can’t provide service anymore, they also can’t charge you for canceling.
Where does GFL take trash and recyclables?
Solid waste from Merriam homes and facilities will be hauled to GFL’s Harrisonville and Kansas City, Missouri transfer stations for ultimate disposal at GFL’s Central Missouri Landfill in Sedalia (MDNR Permit OP2018-031). GFL also operates the Oak Grove landfill in Arcadia, Kansas (KDHE Permit #0819). Recyclables collected from Merriam will be delivered to GFL’s Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) in Harrisonville, Missouri for processing.
What is the City's backup plan if the trash company suddenly stops operating?
If the contractor stops service, the City wouldn’t let trash go uncollected for more than one cycle. In an emergency, the Council would quickly decide whether to bring back individual haulers or sign a new contract. In the meantime, Public Works would step in to help with pickup, though it would be challenging and could delay other City services.
What's the return on investment in terms of street maintenance by going to one trash hauler?
Cutting down from five haulers to one will reduce wear and tear on residential streets, helping them last about two years longer. That means we can delay costly street work, saving the City an estimated 9%—or about $127,000 to $163,000—each year on residential road maintenance. These numbers are based on current paving costs and don’t include arterials or environmental factors, but the long-term savings are significant.
How will this affect residents who pay property taxes through their mortgage?
If you pay property taxes through your mortgage, your lender will likely adjust your monthly payment to cover any increase. That’s because part of your mortgage goes into an escrow account to pay taxes. If taxes go up or a new line is added, your lender may increase your monthly payment to keep your escrow account balanced. If there’s a shortage, they may also spread the difference across future payments.