The City of Fresno's plans to privatize residential trash service is being debated at every turn. Today, the county clerk validated the argument.
Over 27,000 signatures on a petition against the deal with Mid-Valley Disposal were verified. The story that has taken surprising turns is now running out of places to go.
Privatization of residential service will make a return trip to the city council. The mayor is hoping it will be approved for a fourth time.
Even if it is, she'll have to wait to declare victory. The petition ensures the voting public will have the final say.
That would come in the form of a special election. It has to be held within 90 days of the city council's decision, which will be made on February 28th.
That could cost the city as much as a million dollars. Even if voters welcome Mid-Valley trucks at their homes, it'll put a dent in the $4 million dollars the city stands to gain in the first year of the contract.
That's how long the private company promises to not lay anyone off.
Now other city employees are worried the city will cut them before the end of the month.
Mayor Ashley Swearengin says delaying the payment from Mid-Valley will force "dozens" of city staff into unemployment lines. Even then, deciding who picks up the garbage dump the city into bankruptcy.
TXT 24
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