Duval Times

On March 12, 2025, a contract amendment agreement was reached between the Mayor's Office and Meridian Waste, pending adoption by the City Council. The negotiations aimed to develop a long-term strategy for maintaining quality solid waste services for the Northside while minimizing financial impact on the fiscal year 2024-2025 budget. The goal was also to avoid costly litigation and streamline the rate review process.

Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan expressed satisfaction with the collaboration: “I appreciate the opportunity to collaborate with Meridian Waste on a solution that works for the city and the company. Together, we have made this process more efficient for future administrations and councils, delivered long-term financial stability for all parties, and ensured that Meridian Waste will continue providing the same high-quality service that our citizens have come to expect for many years to come.”

Dave Shepler, Meridian Waste's Area President - Florida, echoed these sentiments: "Meridian Waste has always approached this contract with the City of Jacksonville as a partnership, and we believe the proposed amendment achieves the overriding goals of the Mayor, the Council and the Company to ensure the long-term cleanliness and health of the Northside while being fiscally responsible to their constituents and our valued customers."

If adopted, the amendment would extend Meridian Waste's contract by six years until September 30, 2033. It includes an annual Consumer Price Index adjustment capped at 5%, which aims to provide stability in budgeting. Additionally, it eliminates future rate reviews to save staff time across various city departments.

The fiscal year 2024/2025 base rate is set at $22.39 per unit; however, payment of $1.03 per unit is deferred until October 31, 2025. This deferment is intended to aid proper budgeting for fiscal year 2025/2026 while minimizing reserve fund withdrawals. A retroactive payment will be made by April 30, 2025.

Moreover, Meridian Waste commits to providing an in-kind or cash Community Partnership Investment valued at $150,000 over three years starting from fiscal year 2025-2026. This investment will support city economic development initiatives.

These changes apply only to Area II (Northside) Residential Solid Waste Contract without affecting other areas.

The City of Jacksonville serves nearly one million residents as it covers a large land mass in the contiguous United States under leadership including Mayor Donna Deegan and a City Council led by President Randy White.

Meridian Waste operates its core business centered on non-hazardous waste collection across several states servicing numerous customers with facilities supporting its operations nationwide.