Garbage rates to increase
BY KERRI TESTEMENT
Residential garbage rates in Hoschton will slightly increase, starting next month.
The city council approved an increase on Monday for residential waste pick-up from $14.50 to $15 a month, effective May 1.
The move comes after a request from the city’s garbage provider, Waste Pro, to increase the rate it charges the city from $11.69 to $12.25 a month. Hoschton also charges its customers an administrative fee.
Council member Richard Green said the city’s contract with Waste Pro does allow an annual rate increase.
Mayor Bill Copenhaver said the company has been finding ways to conserve fuel amid rising gasoline costs, but still needed a rate increase from its customers.
OTHER BUSINESS
In other business, the Hoschton City Council:
•learned that the city is awaiting the final documents from the Georgia Department of Transportation related to the re-alignment of Ga. Hwy. 332 at Towne Center Parkway.
•learned that an old well house and shed in the open area of the city square have been removed. The city is still working to have a paved parking area on White Street, located behind the city hall and city square.
•learned that a criminal background search program available to employers for potential employees started operating on March 17. The city anticipates to receive $30,000 a year from the venture operated by the police department.
•learned that the police department is considering a residential database, similar to one used in The Village at Hoschton.
•learned that the Hoschton Police Department is vying for a $15,000 grant from Hamburger Helper.
•learned that the city’s farmer’s market may be moved from the depot to the city square. The farmer’s market will also be delayed to start in May.
•learned that the Art Trax festival, set for Saturday, April 19, will have about 45-50 artists. Last year, the event hosted about 25 artists. Music will also be provided during Art Trax.
