Clarkson talks garbage rates, delinquent bills

The Clarkson City Commission meets in regular session Monday evening.

Matt Lasley | Grayson County News

The Clarkson City Commission on Monday discussed ways to improve its garbage service, as well as address delinquent garbage and utility bills. 

The commission briefly continued its discussion about whether to charge differing fee amounts for picking up trash from city dumpsters of different sizes before tabling it to allow officials to collect more data on the matter.

Continuing the discussion related to the city's garbage service, Clarkson Mayor Bonnie Henderson suggested charging a fee for people who want larger items not usually included in normal household garbage — such as couches — picked up.

"I think it's to the point we need to address it," Henderson said. 

No action was taken on this matter Monday.

City Commissioner Joyce Bell, who oversees Clarkson's sewer and sanitation departments, also discussed the city's numerous outstanding bills for garbage and utility customers. 

"The bottom line is these people just don't have the money," Bell said. 

Henderson said the biggest contributor to customers' inability to pay outstanding bills that she sees is the penalty charge, which compounds the longer a bill is overdue.

City Commissioner Tim Faulkner requested a list of accounts with bills that are overdue by at least 60 days, and said he would support waving late fees if the customers could pay the rest of their balance. 

The commission came to a consensus to authorize Henderson and Bell to negotiate settlements with customers whose accounts are overdue.

On a related note, the city commission announced that this year's Spring Cleanup for city residents will be held April 6 through 9.

In other business, the city commission:

*Approved proclamations declaring the week of Feb. 9 through 13 "Family Resource and Youth Services Coordinators Appreciation Week" and the week of March 1 through 7 "Read Across America Week."

*Accepted the high bid of $3,620 to purchase Clarkson's surplus 1996 Ford F250 snow plow/salt spreader. In the case this deal falls through, the commission also voted to accept the second highest bid of $1,750.

*Voted against having a rodeo on the back portion of the Clarkson soccer field because of possible damage to the city park. Officials said they will look for other potential locations for a rodeo, which would be a fundraiser for the park. 

*Heard from Clarkson Fire Chief Andy Cain, who reminded residents that their house number needs to be on both their house and mailbox because, if they aren't, they can be difficult for first responders to locate. 

*Announced that the Clarkson Easter egg hunt will be held March 28. In case of rain, it will be held April 4.

*Announced that this year's Clarkson Park Springfest will be held Saturday, May 10.

*Announced that signup and season information for Clarkson's spring recreation leagues is available on the city's Facebook page.

By: Matt Lasley, Grayson County News. 02/12/26

Read more at the Grayson County News.