During a special meeting on Monday, Weissport Borough Council approved a garbage collection contract with County Waste for a one-year term. Councilwomen Brenda Leiby and Linda Schoenberger were not present for the vote.

County Waste was the lone bidder for the contract, which came in at $46,125 for 2019. The contract is $20,529 higher than the 2018 term.

Residents will see an increase of nearly $35 on their garbage bills, bringing the total to approximately $220 for the year.

Councilman Thomas Ketchledge expressed interest in allowing residents to pay the garbage bill monthly, with garbage bills being sent out with the sewage bills. The monthly bill would come in less than $20, depending on the total number of residences paying for garbage collection. Under the current ordinance, garbage bills are due in one lump sum each year.

Councilmen Greg May and Arland Moyer Sr. were also interested in the idea, however, May said he had concerns that it would create more work for the person handling billing.

No official decision was made concerning the billing.

Solicitor Greg Mousseau will draft an ordinance setting the garbage rates for the coming year and will present the resolution to council at the next meeting on Dec. 17. Council can then determine its course of action regarding billing.

Before adjourning the meeting, Councilman May told council Santa came to the park on Saturday, greeting over 30 children. May thanked everyone for their participation and help with the successful event.