Fines against Waste Management mount

By By Fredie Carmichael / staff writer
Jan. 23, 2003
The city of Meridian has fined Waste Management 15 times since early December for not picking up trash and other violations, according to the city's chief administrative officer.
Ken Storms said Wednesday the problem became so severe recently that the city issued Waste Management the company contracted to pick up city residents' trash a written notice giving them 30 days to come into compliance with the garbage collection contract.
Meridian Public Works Director Monty Jackson said the 15 fines issued last month each carry a $25 penalty.
Attempts to reach Waste Management for comment Wednesday were unsuccessful.
Storms said the city "routinely" gets complaints from residents about trash pick-up. Once the city gets a complaint, Storms said, a city worker checks the home to make sure the claim is justified.
The city's current contract with Waste Management runs out Sept. 30, 2004, with the option of two one-year renewals.
Storms said he believes Waste Management's service needs to improve.