Buncombe County Commissioners held the first reading for the solid waste management franchise agreement with FCC Environmental Services at its May 7, 2024 meeting. The first reading included accountability measures and the transition plan timeline, which outlines FCC Environmental Services beginning waste and recycling collection on Jan. 1, 2025.
Pricing structure details were provided to include:
- Basic Service: Priced at $28.65 per month.
- Premium Service: Available at $59.00 per month. Premium Service includes additional driving beyond the pre-determined pick-up locations that may also require use of special equipment.
- Additional Services: "Bear Carts" available for purchase at $320.00 or a monthly lease of $10.16, and additional carts with service at a monthly lease of $12.00.
FCC Environmental Services will also offer a low income program with a 15% discount for up to 700 subscribers at or below 150% Federal Poverty Level as well as a disability program that provides premium service for basic service cost.
The first two years of the contract the price will remain the same for subscribers, ensuring affordability and consistency. After two years, price increases will be inflationary with a 3.5% floor and a 5% cap based on the consumer price index for all urban consumers (CPI-U) rate.
The second reading of the franchise agreement will be held at the May 21 Board of Commissioners meeting. For additional details about this transition, please visit buncombecounty.org/solidwaste.