Drastically higher bills for waste disposal in this city, citizens are angry: "They raised the price to the sky.

N1 HrvatskaIndependentCenter4 hr. ago

The article reports on a significant increase in waste disposal bills in the city of Benkovac, Croatia, starting from June 1st. Residents express frustration over the sharp rise in costs, with some stating that prices have gone from 6 euros to 26 euros per household. The local government explains that the cost increase is due to the shift from using the old landfill site in Dikla to processing waste at the new Waste Management Center in Biljane Donje. The mayor, Tomislav Bulić (HDZ), notes that the fixed portion of the service has increased from 6.68 to 16.70 euros, while the variable portion has risen from 90 cents to 2.26 euros. The city claims they have already contributed around 400,000 euros toward these costs but argue they are not the most expensive in the region and deserve some form of eco-rent for hosting the center. However, legal experts state that the Waste Management Center does not qualify as a traditional landfill, thus disqualifying the city from claiming eco-revenue under current laws.

Bias read (Center): While the issue of rising waste management costs is politically sensitive, the article presents both the residents' concerns and the municipal administration’s justification, including quotes from the mayor and legal experts. There is no clear ideological slant in the framing of the story, which is,

Net.hrIndependentCenter5 hr. ago

Residents of Benkovac, Croatia, are shocked by a significant increase in waste disposal fees starting June 1st. Previously costing around €6 per month, the new fixed fee is now €16.70, while variable charges based on container empties have risen from €0.90 to €2.26. The increase follows the decision to process waste at a recycling center in Biljane Donje rather than sending it to the old landfill in Dikl. Mayor Tomislav Bulić (HDZ) explained that the cost rise is due to higher processing fees at the new facility. The city has previously subsidized waste management with around €400,000 but claims it cannot afford further costs. Benkovac is seeking an eco-rent from the waste management center, arguing they deserve compensation since the center operates within their municipality. However, the director of the waste management company stated there is currently no legal basis for such a payment.

Bias read (Center): The article presents both perspectives: the residents' frustration over increased costs and the city's justification for the price hike due to higher processing fees. It also includes the city’s request for an eco-rent and the counterargument from the waste management company regarding legal grounds