Batesville City Council met for their last meeting of 2018 on Tuesday Evening. The Council passed an ordinance to amend the residential curbside waste and pickup ordinance. City trash crews will start placing sticker directions on cans placed incorrectly for automatic pickup. The newer trucks are made specifically for the recently issued City of Batesville trash carts. Time will be allowed for residents to understand how to be compliant with the new ordinance. After the adjustment period, a 24-hour-can-at-curb policy will be enforced by the City.
Though a resolution, the council acknowledged the need for the County to charge a $3 per ton facility fee for solid waste that is sent through its facility. The policy applies to all cities in the county with separate operations for trash collection. The City adjusted trash fees to accommodate the increase in solid waste fees. Effective February 1st, 2019, fees will increase 27 cents for city pickup and 20 cents to offset the cost of the County facility fee. The fee will increase to $14.07 per month and $9.13 per month for households of 65 and older or earning less than $14,000 per year. Households deemed under hardship will remain the same.
The council also recognized two out-going council members. Margaret Henley has served on the council since 2009 and will be going to work for Main Street. David Shetron join the council in 2006, coming on at the same time a Mayor Rick Elumbaugh.
Before adjournment, the council discussed and approved employee incentives. Full-time employees will receive $200.00 and part-time employees will receive $50.00.
Get up-to-date local and regional news along with the latest weather every weekday morning by listening to Gary B. and Ozark Newsline on Arkansas 103.3 KWOZ, 93 KZLE, and other W.R.D. Entertainment radio stations. If you have a news tip or event to promote, email White River Now at news@whiterivernow.com.
