The Ashland Borough Council held its monthly meeting on June 11, 2025, where the issues surrounding garbage collection, recycling, and community upkeep were discussed.
Rising disposal costs, enforcement of waste regulations, and long-term solutions dominated the discussion.
Council members reported that the borough currently pays about $75 per ton to dispose of municipal garbage, adding up to nearly $1,800 each week for the seven to eight truckloads collected. Officials warned that if expenses continue to climb, an increase in collection fees may eventually be unavoidable.
Enforcement of the borough’s five-bag limit for residential permit holders has been inconsistent, with many households routinely placing out more bags than permitted. This often results in extra bags being left behind, causing unsightly accumulation. To improve compliance, the council voted to send reminder letters outlining the rules for trash limits and proper placement. There was also discussion of authorizing police to issue citations for repeated violations, including excessive bags and rubbish left scattered outside collection hours.
The council also debated whether requiring residents to use garbage cans rather than bags could reduce problems with animals tearing open trash. While some favored making cans mandatory, others questioned whether an ordinance would be practical or enforceable.
In addition, unauthorized private trucks collecting trash have created further confusion. Officials reminded residents that only approved borough services are permitted to handle garbage pickup.
Recycling proved to be another complex issue. The borough’s earlier recycling program, initially funded by Schuylkill County, was discontinued after operational costs rose and frequent misuse of drop-off sites became unmanageable.
Despite past difficulties, council members expressed interest in exploring new approaches.
Suggestions included:
- Offering a distinctively colored, possibly larger bag residents could purchase for recyclables.
- Setting up a separate recycling collection day or dedicated truck.
- Researching private companies that provide bins and compactors for plastics and cardboard.
Council members noted that while other communities such as Elysburg have established recycling centers, those facilities often require strict hours and oversight, potentially making access harder for working residents.
Several residents in attendance expressed frustration about the borough’s overall appearance, describing some areas as neglected and littered. Nearby Shenandoah’s successful clean-up efforts were cited as an example Ashland might follow.