Lewisburg Council Adopts New 12 Month Solid Waste Collection Policy Trial

The Louisburg Town Council has taken a significant step towards improving waste management in the community by approving a resolution to implement a comprehensive solid waste collection policy on a 12-month trial basis. This decision, made during the council meeting on August 13, 2025, aims to address various waste collection issues, including household garbage, bulk waste, and yard waste, while also enhancing operational efficiency.

Key aspects of the new policy include a structured collection schedule: household trash will be collected on Mondays and Tuesdays, bulk waste will be picked up on Fridays by appointment, and yard waste will be collected twice weekly on Wednesdays and Thursdays. The council emphasized the importance of residents placing their waste containers at the curb by 5 AM on collection days to improve efficiency and reduce delays caused by varying daylight hours.

One of the notable changes is the introduction of medical exemptions for residents who are physically unable to take their waste to the curb. This initiative aims to ensure that all community members have access to waste collection services. Additionally, the council discussed the need for clear communication regarding the new policy, promising that all active accounts would receive a direct mailer detailing the changes.

Concerns were raised about the potential reduction in service frequency, particularly regarding the shift to once-a-week garbage collection. Council members debated the implications of this change, with some expressing worries about increased litter and the challenges it may pose for residents with larger waste needs. In response, the council highlighted that the new policy aligns with industry standards and aims to streamline operations.

The meeting also touched on the need for better management of bulk waste, which has been described as a "free for all" under the current system. The proposed policy includes fees for excessive bulk waste and clarifies that yard waste must be placed in specific containers, as the Franklin County Landfill does not accept certain types of bags.

While the council approved the resolution, discussions about adding curbside recycling services within the next year were also initiated, reflecting a growing awareness of environmental concerns among council members. The council acknowledged that while the new policy may initially seem restrictive, it is designed to enhance efficiency and service quality in the long run.

As the town moves forward with this trial period, residents can expect to see changes in waste collection practices, with the council committed to reviewing the policy's effectiveness and making adjustments as necessary. The outcomes of this initiative will be closely monitored, with the goal of creating a more efficient and responsive waste management system for the Louisburg community.