An aldermanic committee voted tonight to move forward with plans for a municipal solid waste franchise for business and rental apartment buildings.
Public Works Director John Burke says the plan would generate about $200,000 in new revenue each year for the city from the franchise fee and increased recycling revenue.
He also says the plan should result in lower garbage hauling charges for the vast majority of local businesses.
A meeting last month held by city staff drew representatives of about 30 local businesses, of whom only a few reportedly objected to the plan.
The concept of using a single hauler for businesses has already been adopted by about two dozen other communities served by the Solid Waste Agency of Northern Cook County.
Businesses with locations in multiple communities could apply for exemption from the plan.
Residential properties now served by the city’s own garbage trucks and condo units included in a city-pickup program serviced by Groot Industries would not be included in the new program.
Following tonight’s vote by the Administration and Public Works Committee, the staff is expected to have an ordinance ready for consideration by the City Council at its next meeting on Monday, June 23.