Gardnerville trash hike in works

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.