Wausau Public Health and Safety Committee Makes Garbage and Recycling Contract Recommendation

Wednesday, September 17th, 2025 -- 8:01 AM

(Mike Leischner, WSAU) The Wausau Public Health and Safety Committee is recommending a seven-year garbage and recycling contract with incumbent provider Harter’s, despite a lack of price difference between the seven and 10-year options.

According to Mike Leischner with WSAU, Committee Chair Lisa Rasmussen said she supports another three years of price stability. “I feel like, even without a price incentive for us to commit to ten years, the cost of everything is higher every year.

If we can lock something in at a rate for ten years versus seven, I feel like there’s no way that this isn’t going to cost more in ten years. It’s going to cost more in nine years, eight years. It boils down to the predictability of the service.

“I like the idea of kicking the can, a large price increase, down the road three extra years,” added Rasmussen. But some on the committee wanted to know how the city could incorporate additional service for compostables. Alder Sarah Watson said she would prefer a shorter deal, because it would mean an earlier out if habits change.

“I see the advantage of ten years, but I also hope we will come up with something different or maybe there will be something changing with how we trash stuff or recycle stuff. I do see the benefit, so I’m sort of torn,” said Watson.

Alder Carol Lukens also expressed a desire for better access to composting. The motion to recommend a seven-year deal passed unanimously. The city’s Finance Committee will consider the deal next, before the full council has the final say at a future meeting.

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