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University Place council grants franchise to Harold LeMay Enterprises for refuse and recycling

University Place City Council · November 17, 2025

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Summary

After a public hearing and staff presentation, the council adopted an ordinance granting a franchise to Harold LeMay Enterprises (doing business as Pierce County Refuse). Key changes include CPIU‑based annual adjustments (with a 5% cap), a senior low‑income discount, a four‑voucher program including a bulky‑item pickup, and a term through Dec. 31, 2035 (with one mutual five‑year extension).

The University Place City Council on Nov. 17 passed an ordinance granting a refuse and recycling franchise to Harold LeMay Enterprises Inc., doing business as Pierce County Refuse. Administrative Services Director Lisa Potarek summarized negotiated changes to the franchise language, including annual consumer price index adjustments tied to the Seattle/Tacoma/Bellevue CPIU, a 5% maximum annual rate ceiling, a new senior low‑income discount of up to 20% for eligible 35‑gallon service, and a voucher program that allows residents in the LeMay service area to request up to four supplemental pickups per year (one of which may be used for a bulky item such as a refrigerator).

Potarek said the franchise term would take effect Jan. 1 and run through Dec. 31, 2035 with a one‑time five‑year extension upon mutual agreement; staff made conforming updates to RCW and city code references and increased certain insurance requirements per Washington Cities Insurance Authority recommendations.

Ross Riedsecker, LeMay’s district manager, told the council LeMay has served parts of the city for more than 20 years and urged approval so the company can continue service in southeast University Place. Council discussion praised the addition of bulky‑item pickup and parity with the incumbent provider. A roll‑call vote recorded council approval.

What happens next: The franchise becomes effective Jan. 1; staff will coordinate implementation, senior discount enrollment and voucher program parameters with LeMay.