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To the Citizens of Bucyrus:

It appears that the proposed purchase of two new trash trucks and wheeled carts has not yet received the emergency approval sought by the administration. Two members of City Council voted against the emergency legislation, meaning the proposal must now proceed through the normal three-reading process unless another approach is presented at the June 2, 2026 Council meeting.

Throughout this entire process, residents have been provided with little to no information, revised figures, and incomplete answers, feeling like our city is being inclusive with all information. Citizens deserve transparency when discussing a project that could significantly impact trash rates and city finances for the next 10 years to come. Our government body doesn’t want the residents involved, “we are the experts on this”. Especially when one council member stated “If you don’t like the taxes, get the **** out”. Is this not how our elected officials should respond on any matter and the fact that no news releases have been given out on informing the public on this matter. Even the Mayor and Service-Safety Director arranged for a demonstration of the proposed equipment, yet many residents were unaware of it or were intentionally left out. If this project is truly beneficial for our community, why was there not a broader effort to educate residents, demonstrate the equipment, and answer questions before moving forward?

I have attended the meetings on this issue from the beginning. During those meetings, information has evolved, cost estimates have changed, cart sizes have been discussed and revised, and questions have often been met with incomplete responses. Even some members of Council have expressed frustration regarding the lack of consistent information and ignoring residents’ questions. Based upon the information presented so far to the public, these appear to be the major financial components of this proposal:

  • Purchase price of approximately $1.2 to $1.3 million for two trucks and carts.
  • Financing at approximately 5.77% interest over a ten-year period.
  • Annual loan payments are estimated at $263,239.87 per year.
  • Total repayment estimated at approximately $2.5 million over ten years.
  • Required down payment of $200,000.
  • Load capacity is 6 yards different, compared to the current fleet.
  • Life expectancy is 6-8 years on new trucks.

In addition, several ongoing costs must be considered:

  • Fuel expenses
  • Landfill tipping fees
  • Vehicle maintenance and repairs
  • Replacement parts after warranty expiration
  • Replacement of damaged or worn carts
  • Employee labor costs
  • Maintenance of existing fleet vehicles
  • Insurance and liability concerns
  • Future equipment replacement costs

This could cost the taxpayers between $1.5 to $1.75 million per year. That would be over the revenue and carryover funds for this undertaking. The auditor spreadsheet did show numbers, but used the same numbers from the current fleet for the new trucks. This definitely shows no real planning on the actual cost for transparency on this matter.

The City Auditor has stated that residential trash rates are not expected to increase until approximately 2029 or 2030. However, future operating expenses, landfill fees, fuel costs, maintenance expenses, and inflation are difficult to predict with certainty. These factors could impact future rates sooner than anticipated.

The role of the City Auditor is to provide accurate financial analysis and oversight on the residents behalf. They should expect clear and detailed

financial projections that fully account for both the purchase costs and the long-term operating expenses associated with this proposal. The Auditor should not be embedded with the SSD on this project, this position should stay neutral on all financial matters. There was a clear error by the auditor on the water line funds, could this be a repeat performance on this matter.

Supporters of the new system have also cited employee safety concerns. Workplace safety is important and should always be taken seriously. At the same time, every profession carries inherent risks. Proper training, equipment, physical conditioning, and adherence to safety procedures are essential components of reducing workplace injuries.

My concern is not with the employees performing the work. My concern is whether city officials have provided complete and accurate information to the public regarding the costs, benefits, and long-term financial impact of this project.

Unfortunately, this proposal has raised more questions than answers. Residents have repeatedly heard statements such as “we don’t have that information available” or “we’ll figure it out as we go.” Major financial decisions should be based on complete planning and clear facts before commitments are made.

This proposal must also be viewed within the broader context of the city’s future financial obligations, including:

  • Water treatment plant loan and chemicals – unknown
  • Wastewater treatment plant upgrades and loan – projected $80-$120 million
  • South Sandusky project for $7.5 million, including loan
  • Water line project loan, over $1 million
  • Current Fire Engine payment – unknown
  • Future ambulance purchases – $400,000 for 1 unit
  • Fire apparatus replacement – $1.2 million for a Fire Engine, $2.5 million for Ladder Truck
  • Police vehicle replacement – 10 vehicles, $800,000
  • Employee wage and benefit increases – unknown
  • Potential future levy requests – Pool Levy Income Tax

Each of these projects may be necessary, but together they represent significant financial commitments for the citizens of Bucyrus.

I encourage residents to attend the City Council meeting on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. Ask questions. Request documentation. Review the numbers. Make your voice heard.

An informed public is essential to a responsible government. Respectfully submitted,

Greg White

1125 Hillcrest Drive

Bucyrus, Ohio 44820