Batavia raises garbage charges

Garbage bags will cost a bit more to fill in Batavia starting next month.

The price of garbage stickers will rise from $2.27 to $2.63, and garbage bag rates will rise from $2.27 to $2.70 under a contract approved by the city council Monday.

The new prices go into effect July 1.

City officials decided to renew a five-year contract with Veolia Waste Services, citing few resident complaints and a good relationship with the company. Considering nearby towns' contracts and the increase in fuel prices, Batavia's deal is a good one, said Alderman Jim Volk.

"Even though prices are going up, it's clear we've got the best deal around," he said.

Sticker prices then will go up by about 10 cents each of the next four years.

The company will begin offering a 35-gallon "toter" cart in addition to the 65- and 95-gallon carts that residents can pay for monthly now. The 95-gallon cart price will increase from $18.94 to $19.50 monthly.

The contract will continue the half-bag "senior" option at $1.32.

The five-year contract with Veolia includes a "fuel adjustment clause," which states that prices can be raised annually if there is a spike in fuel costs.

Current stickers will be honored until July 15. Stickers can be turned into the city for credit against new stickers until Aug. 15.