Labor shortages behind Jenkintown’s trash collection rate increase

Jenkintown residents will see their annual trash collection fees rise from $275 to $400 beginning January 1, 2023.

Borough manager George Locke noted that the increase is in line with other local municipalities, and that labor shortages seem to be the cause.

“Everyone went up. Labor isn’t in good shape and they’re having trouble keeping drivers,” Locke said. “Our municipal employees have gone to work for waste management because their salaries just went up. We can’t keep up with private industry. We’re doing the best we can.”

According to Borough research, Rockledge residents will pay $485 annually in 2023, Upper/Lower South Hampton residents will pay $500, and Lower Moreland’s current annual $385 fee is set to increase as well.

The rate was set as part of a renewed contract with Republic Services. The Borough received three public bids earlier this year, with Republic Services being the lowest responsible bidder.

The contract began in March and will expire in 2025, totaling $1,371,793.80 over three years.

Photo credit: RecyclingToday.com