Waste Connections takeover of Air Capital Waste leaves customers frustrated

WICHITA, Kan. (KWCH) — A recent merger between two trash pickup companies is causing confusion and frustration for some Wichita residents. Waste Connections has officially acquired Air Capital Waste, bringing changes to trash service across the city.

In June, Air Capital Waste customers learned Waste Connections purchased their garbage service. Neighbors say the merger has come with growing pains.

“Not good. I mean, it’s a new beginning, I guess, for them, so I understand it’s going to take some time to get things right,” said James Andrew, another customer

For Amber Spiegel, one of the biggest changes has been a shift in her trash pickup day. She’s even considering other options if problems continue.

“If it becomes a problem for me and I’m sure there’s going to be some kind of price increase at some point, I will definitely let [landlord] know and ask [landlord] if they can look around for other places,” Spiegel said.

Others say they’re willing to wait and see if the service improves.

“Things are a little rocky in the beginning, you know? So time will tell,” Andrew said.

But both Spiegel and Andrew agree that better communication is needed.

“We deserve to be informed. We pay our bills, we do what we’re supposed to do. I will ask that they do the same thing and keep us informed of any of these changes so we know what to expect moving forward,” Spiegel said.

Waste Connections sent out letters to customers in mid-August with instructions on how to register for their service, according to a statement on the company’s website. Customers can also use their first invoice to complete registration.

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