At our June 8, 2026, Portsmouth Town Council meeting, the PCCaligned majority
rejected a $520peryear trash pickup option and then immediately approved a
$569peryear alternative. That’s nearly $50 more per household for the same service.
The lowercost option included negotiated concessions and a contract extension that
would have secured longterm savings and protected residents from inflation. My motion to adopt the more affordable Option 4 failed 4–3, with Councilmembers Gleason, Reis, Patton, and McDowell opposed. Moments later, the more expensive Option 2 passed 5–2, with Council President Hamilton and me in opposition.
Aside from the vote itself, Portsmouth has now experienced rollout issues in both trash- hauling programs. These problems did not arise in a vacuum — they stem from poor outlook, weak insight, and inconsistent decisionmaking by the PCC 4. When the Council repeatedly kicks the can on decisions for political gain, Town staff are forced to manage the consequences, often without the clarity or stability they need to serve residents effectively. Actions have consequences, and governing requires understanding how our decisions impact operations on the ground.
Portsmouth residents deserve a Council that exercises sound judgment and supports
staff in delivering reliable, costeffective services. I will continue advocating for
responsible, thoughtful decisionmaking.
Juan Carlos Payero
Portsmouth Town Councilmember
