AUGUSTA, Ga. () – Augusta leaders are sitting down, talking trash.

“I’ve received numerous inquiries and comments from residents regarding this issue, and I’m not ready to proceed until I fully comprehend the proposal,” stated Commissioner Jordan Johnson.

The proposal involves those wishing to recycle having to make a separate agreement with the hauler, Coastal Waste and Recycling. Depending on the level of service, this could increase the trash fee by $178.

Commissioner Rice said she’s being bombarded with emails opposing it.

“Some feel they shouldn’t pay anything because they’ve already invested time in recycling, and they believe they shouldn’t need to pay more. I understand their point and share their frustrations,” stated Catherine Smith Rice.

However, further frustration may arise. The city administrator is recommending a $75 increase to the trash fee, raising it to $395 annually, which would be included in this year’s tax bill.

“Do you like that?”

“Ha, not me. I’m one of the few people to say let’s see what you can do with the money that we have,” said Mayor Pro-Tem Wayne Guilfoyle.

The administrator informed commissioners that the fee hike would fund vacant lot cleaning, blight demolition, and mosquito control. Some commissioners believe this rationale might be hard to justify.

“Residents are asking what benefit they receive. Essentially, all you’re saying is that their trash is collected and elsewhere, a house is being demolished,” explained Commissioner Brandon Garrett.

Commissioners are facing a middle of August deadline to agree on the new trash fees.