Dive Brief:

• Republic Services has been awarded a $20 million waste contract for the city of Gary, IN.
• The terms of the agreement include hauling waste for approximately 22,894 households over the next five years; the contract doesn't include recycling, which will be handled by the city.
• The first year of the agreement is worth an estimated $4.2 million, with a 3% increase added every January 1.

Dive Insight:

The deal was approved by the Gary Sanitary Board of Commissioners. Republic was awarded the contract following its agreement to haul waste on an “emergency basis” since Oct. 31. Gary, IN terminated its contract with waste and recycling company Waste Management in September, citing a strained relationship with the hauler following outcries of missed collections and allegations of the company's failure to address customer complaints. 

Mayor Karen Freeman-Wilson said, “After a competitive process, Republic Services emerged as the most responsible bidder. In addition to the bid, they have indicated their willingness to partner with the city as a corporate citizen and do everything to deliver exemplary solid waste service and other services associated with maintaining a clean Gary.”