Franklin likely to contract with Pelican Waste pickup

Franklin City Council members gave Mayor Raymond Harris Jr. authority to contract with Pelican Waste & Debris for garbage collection beginning July 1.
Co-owner and operator Roddy Matherne was previously with Sweedee, which was later sold and in its current incarnation is Progressive Waste Solutions, the current collector.
Bulk collection of white goods, furniture and such was questioned by council members. The city would pay for that service under the proposed contract. Franklin crews are currently picking up bulk items.
The cost would be $4.03 per resident per month.
Mayor Harris suggested that residents call for pickup and Pelican bill them directly.
There was also a discussion of resident-owned containers, which Matherne said are not actually owned but rather leased to residents. When Progressive turns over collection to Pelican, they will pick up their cans and sometimes take cans residents believe belong to them. The mayor said he would make a call to Progressive to help abate confusion and added that “after 10 years of having it, they ought to own it.”
Pelican will locate its facility on Northwest Boulevard near Franklin Foundation Hospital rather than the existing site on 10th Street.
In other business Franklin Foundation Hospital Business Development/Marketing Coordinator Dawn Kaiser said that October will include a health awareness event downtown bringing various health and other agencies together in partnership with local businesses, health providers and others. More details will be announced.
Also Tuesday:
—The council approved up to $1,600 allocated to Alpha of Charisma for its “Back to School Free Haircut or Hairstyle” Day Aug. 3 at 7 a.m. at Broussard Harris Recreation Center.
—Mayor Harris was granted authority to conduct a study on demolition of the Center Theater including hazardous materials surveys and cost.
—An ordinance was introduced authorizing a cooperative agreement between the city and St. Mary Parish Government for financing of the Third Ward Court system.
—An ordinance was approved declaring the sale of surplus property.
—A resolution was approved supporting St. Mary Landmarks in an application for funding through the state Recreational Trails Program.
—Moses Grimm announced the “Refuge of the Rising Star” youth program to be opened soon in the city. More details to be forthcoming.