With North Huntingdon Township's garbage contract expiring at the end of the year, commissioners took the opportunity to hone definitions, decrease the contract length and create more options for residents.

The township is currently in a five-year garbage contract with County Hauling Corp.

Commissioners decided to compare bids for two- and four-year garbage contracts.

They also agreed to continue the senior sticker program and provide clear definitions, including the size of acceptable bags and where the bags should be placed.

The township may also consider asking Irwin Borough to participate in a joint-contract as a means for cost savings when its garbage contract expires in 2009.

Township Manager Kelly Wolfe said she would like to have contracts out for bid in August and be awarded by September.

Wolfe provided a presentation comparing 11 nearby communities and the garbage collection options, including traditional bag system and an automated cart system.

The automated cart system would require residents to use a uniform bin turned a certain way.

In the end, that option was turned down by commissioners.

The township currently has every garbage bag picked up whether the resident has paid the bill or not as a safety and sanitary condition.

"That can create a real problem for the hauler if they have someone who is not paying their bills," Wolfe said. "The township put that (policy) in place in an effort to keep things clean."

She suggested creating a way to cite the resident, especially if delinquent bill payment is not taken to the district magistrate office by the garbage collector.

Wolfe said some complaints by garbage collection companies include people who use Giant Eagle bags, residents who put trash on the porch thinking it will be picked up and refuse that is refused pickup.