OAK GROVE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – A special called meeting of the Oak Grove City Council was held on March 23 to reassess the contract that was being proposed for a new Solid Waste Collection Service. A lengthy discussion was held regarding the city eventually having their own trash service and how that could impact the contract.

In December of 2025, councilmembers voted to reject a bid from Stinky Pinky Inc. which was in line to become the city’s primary residential solid waste service. Since then, bids for service have gone out again, with the city entering into a temporary contract with GFL to ensure continued collection of trash in the city.

Councilmember proposes changes to bid, brings up revenue opportunity

During the special called meeting, John Campbell proposed that the council adjusts the bid that has been released, instead creating a three-year contract for solid waste collection services as opposed to the current five-year contract so the city can fast track establishing their own service.

“This is a chance that we can put more revenue into the City of Oak Grove,” emphasized Campbell, saying that they rely heavily on taxes for revenue. He has been vocal in the past about investing in a paid fire department for the city, adding that their own solid waste service would give them the ability to have direct control.

Campbell said this route could potentially bring in $1.2 million for the city. However, the initial cost to get it up and running may require an investment of approximately $1.5 million to serve all 3,400 households and commercial businesses in Oak Grove. This price tag includes the purchase of new trash cans and trucks.

City Attorney Lee Wilson pointed out that since bids have already been sent out to fill the service, companies that are currently planning on submitting bids may be hesitant about the change.

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Councilmembers disagree during revenue debate

A debate ensued among councilmembers regarding the process and potential investment that a municipal run waste department would require. Councilmember Janet Edwards agreed with the proposed shorter contract, saying that the length of a five-year contract would put off discussion about a municipal waste service through 2031.

Doubts about the plan were voiced by Councilmember Jean Leavell, who argued that the initial investment would be too high and not enough research has been done to warrant the rush.

“Give me some facts, like where are you going to put the trash when you collect it?” she said to Campbell. “If we are going for five years, that will give us an opportunity to start looking, negotiating, getting better prices.”

Mayor Jackie Oliver told the council that she reached out to three different companies, and it was disclosed that a five-year contract would result in a much lower rate for residents. The higher rate with a shorter contract could be anywhere from a three to six-dollar increase.

After the vote, it was decided that the current five-year contract would remain. Councilmember Campbell and Edwards voted against, with Spencer, Leavell, Baker and Cook voting in favor.

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