Sparta Seeking New Trash-Recycling Contract

Sparta Township will begin drawing up bid specifications for its next solid waste-recycling contract.

While the contract would take effect next April, Township Manager David Troust asked the council for some guidance at last week's Township Council meeting. He said the staff needs time to draw up bid specs and the bidding process must begin six months  before the end of the existing contract.

Councilman Jerry Murphy raised the timing issue because there are financial implications if deadlines are not met.

Deputy Mayor Molly Whilesmith asked if an opt-out clause could be added to the contract.

Many residents don’t use the township’s service and they are still paying for it, she said.

Murphy said the bid specs could list suggested services levels based on all 6,700 homes in Sparta for one price; reducing the number of homes serviced from one to 200; and so on.

Troust said a survey would need to be done to create an estimate of whose who might opt-out.

Whilesmith and Councilwoman Christine Quinn asked if the bid could be offered in two parts, one for solid-waste collection and the other for recycling collection.

Troust said it could be done in that way, but that is was usually more cost effective to seek a single bid that included both services.