Indian River County officials met with WPTV to address concerns from Vero Beach condo owners facing a significant increase in waste management fees. Thomas Clark raised the issue during a WPTV Let's Hear It event, telling anchor Mike Trim that his monthly condo association waste management fees had jumped from $11 to $21, representing a roughly 93% increase.
The fee increase results from a new contract with Waste Management that took effect in October 2025. WPTV brought Clark's concerns directly to the Indian River County Department of Utility Services during a video conference meeting. County officials confirmed that the new contract raised average condo association waste management fees from the previous $11 monthly rate to the current $21 rate. Clark expressed his dissatisfaction with the increase, telling Trim he was not happy about it. He suggested that if the county made a mistake, officials should consider helping residents. "I understand that if the county made a mistake, it should be on their end, you would think," Clark said. "Maybe look at something to help us out."
County officials explained that condo owners are receiving additional services under the new contract. Himanshu Mehta of the Indian River County Solid Waste Disposal District said residents can now place bulk items near condo dumpsters, a service that was not previously available. Mehta and other county officials emphasized the importance of community involvement in public hearings, noting that this contract was approved during hearings held in 2024. They encouraged residents to participate in these public meetings to stay informed about changes that affect their fees and services.
Mehta offered to provide more detailed explanations of the contract process to concerned residents. "If this gentleman wanted to invite us or his HOA wanted to invite us to a meeting, we're happy to send someone to go over this process in more detail," Mehta said. "It's certainly something I'm available for — my team is available to provide that." Residents seeking more information can stay updated on Indian River County public hearings through the county website. Current recycling and garbage schedules are also available on the county's online resources.