RaeKar Makes Logistics Change, Back to the Drawing Board for Wayne County Solid Waste

The following statement was recently made by RaeKar CEO Jason Crews on RaeKar's social media in regard to the tipping fee imposed on commercial waste haulers by the Wayne County Commission. The imposed tipping fee took effect on January 1, 2026.

“We want to sincerely thank our customers across Wayne County for your continued trust and business.

"We also want to provide clarity regarding a recently approved fee voted on by some Wayne County Commissioners. This fee was not requested by our company. For the last four years, we communicated directly with both the County Commission and the County Mayor to explain the likely unintended consequences this decision could have for residents and local businesses.

"As a company with deep experience in waste management operations, logistics, pricing, and efficiency, we understand firsthand how disposal costs are created — and more importantly, how they can be controlled. We have been transparent with our rate increase and the data it was based upon. To date, the county has not addressed operational efficiency or expense management at the county transfer station. Instead, one of the highest tipping fees in the state has been imposed.

"We are frustrated by this tipping fee which is already making it harder for us to compete. Citizens and businesses are being forced to look at options of downsizing or even discontinuing service, which directly impacts our ability to retain business, grow locally, and sustain revenue in Wayne County.

"In response, we have worked diligently to secure more competitive disposal rates at an alternative transfer station which we will begin using in the new year. These efforts are aimed at reducing cost pressures where possible. While the increase is still substantial, we are making every effort to keep rate increases affordable.

"We understand that many citizens are also frustrated by these decisions. If residents are unhappy with the direction being taken, the most effective way to express that concern is by staying informed, engaging respectfully, and making their voices heard at the ballot box in the next election.

"Our team manages waste services every day, across multiple markets, with a focus on efficiency, accountability, and cost control. We remain committed to operating responsibly, serving our customers well, and being transparent about decisions that impact service costs in Wayne County."