March 2009 

Dear Clarkson Valley Resident, 

I’m sure you have your own explanation of today’s economy.  Sounds like --- It’s Tough out there!  Families, businesses, not-for-profit organizations, all are feeling the expense.  Many of you will recall from my Chronicle newsletter articles my concern with the financial deficits the City has been experiencing over the last three years.  

It is essential we address this problem now to substantially reduce expenses.  As a first step, we have addressed our trash expense.  It represents 38% of our expense budget.  When the opportunity to re-negotiate our current contract became available, we decided it would be advantageous to do so. 

After considerable thought and discussion, your City Council made their decision based on the following:    

1)            60%-70% of our trash is picked up on Tuesday

2)            therefore once a week seems acceptable to more residents

3)            recyclables continue to increase—result less trash

4)            the City can save approximately $80,000 a year

5)            the change could be made now (within 30 days) 

Therefore, the following changes will be made effective March 30, 2009: 

1)            reduce our trash pick up from twice a week to once a week

2)            maintain the current recycle schedule

3)            suspend yard waste pickups for the months of December 2009 through March 29, 2010 

Meridian Waste will deliver a follow-up letter with details specific for each subdivision in the next few days. 

Even with this change, our projections for the 2009-10 fiscal year (July 1 – June 30) show a deficit.  Our largest source of revenue comes from Missouri’s General Sales tax (40%), another 9% from the gasoline tax.  If these two sources remain at the same level as last year, the deficit is projected to be between $10,000 - $15,000. 

The City Council continues to evaluate options to generate and/or save money.  So I ask you to give this first significant change a chance to work.  A new habit might even cause more recycling.  If it just can’t work for you, Meridian will arrange for additional pickups at an additional, direct bill charge.  If you have any questions or comments, please call me at 636-394-8916. 

Sincerely,

CITY OF CLARKSON VALLEY 

Scott Douglass

Mayor