Chardon Secures 5-Year Fixed Trash Rates, Saves Residents $2 | The Locally Times
A new contract with local Dumpster Bandit LLC locks in a $2 monthly saving for Chardon households, guaranteeing stable rates for five years starting June 2.
Chardon households are set to save $2 every month on trash and recycling, with rates dropping from $20.01 to $18.01 and guaranteed fixed for the next five years. This significant saving comes under a new contract with Dumpster Bandit LLC, a locally owned Geauga County company, scheduled to begin service on June 2, 2026. The City of Chardon announced the transition on March 13, 2026, after a competitive bidding process where Dumpster Bandit secured the contract as the lowest bidder. The new agreement provides an immediate $2 reduction for combined trash and recycling services. Residents can also opt for trash-only service at $13.92 monthly; unlike the previous hauler, those choosing this option will not be charged for recycling, the city's March 13 civic alert confirmed. This five-year fixed rate aims to offer predictable household budgeting. Dumpster Bandit, a locally owned Geauga County company, secured the contract with the lowest bid, promising reduced rates and price stability. ## Transition Logistics The transition includes new collection bins for residents. Trash bins are scheduled for delivery the week of May 18, 2026, with recycling bins following the week of May 25, 2026, the city announced. The first collection by Dumpster Bandit is set for June 2, 2026. To ensure uninterrupted service, Dumpster Bandit will continue to empty existing Waste Management bins for the first few weeks if not promptly collected. The bi-weekly recycling schedule, zone splits, and collection days will remain unchanged. ## Expanded Offerings and Account Management Dumpster Bandit will introduce several new and continued services. Bags for additional waste can be purchased at their office (12488 GAR Hwy, Chardon). Existing senior discounts and disability carryout services will automatically transfer; new applicants for senior discounts apply through the City, while new carryout requests go directly to Dumpster Bandit (440-214-2958). Sharps disposal will be offered free at Dumpster Bandit’s office on Mondays, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Residents will soon receive a paper mailer with account setup and billing instructions. Paper bills will be default until preferences are changed online. Vacation suspensions are available by contacting Dumpster Bandit via phone or email. The city's announcement also confirmed a Saturday trash day will continue in Fall 2026, with the specific date yet to be chosen. Christmas tree disposal will remain a January drop-off service at the Service Center. ## Key Questions **How much will my monthly trash and recycling bill change?** Your monthly bill for combined trash and recycling services will decrease from $20.01 to $18.01, a $2 monthly saving. This rate is fixed for the initial five-year contract term. **When will new bins arrive and service begin?** Trash bins are scheduled for delivery the week of May 18, 2026, and recycling bins the week of May 25, 2026. The first collection by Dumpster Bandit is set for June 2, 2026. **Can I opt out of recycling service?** Yes, residents can opt for trash-only service at a monthly cost of $13.92. Customers choosing this option will not be charged for recycling services.