Lang
10/14/23
North Liberty city officials are addressing recent complaints about the city’s trash, recycling and yard waste services.
City staffers say they are aware of delayed and missed collections, and are working with LRS, the owners of Johnson County Refuse, to improve service.
In April of 2018, after an open bidding process, Johnson County Refuse was awarded a 10-year renewal of its contract for residential collection services after it was the only bidder.
In December of 2021, LRS announced its acquisition of Johnson County Refuse and took over the contract for the city’s collection services.
The current contract, which expires June 30th, 2028, contains a variety of service requirements and penalties, including termination of the agreement, in the event that the hauler fails to meet those requirements for reasons within their control. North Liberty officials say LRS staff has assured them they have hired and transferred workers to restore capacity and service levels.
City staffers warn that termination of the LRS contract would be disruptive, and improved service from another contractor isn’t guaranteed. A news release issued by the city earlier this week cites a different hauler in a different state that failed to collect trash for weeks.
LRS’s local staff can be reached by email at jcroffice@lrsrecycles.com or phone at (319) 665-4498. North Liberty residents can submit a message on our webform (use the subject “Trash Collection”) that will reach the hauler and city staff.