PANAMA — The village of Panama is continuing garbage pickup services for village residents.

Following a discussion at the latest board meeting about options regarding removing garbage pickup from the village budget, Mayor William Schneider has continued the garbage contract. Typically, garbage pickup is covered for residents in the yearly spending plan, and the village discussed options at the September board meeting around taking it out to help balance the current budget as taxes do not currently cover the cost of garbage pickup. The contract renewal date is Sept. 30.

Schneider said it was decided to renew the contract following feedback from a previous Post-Journal article, which focused on the village discussing options they could possibly take around the issue. Options include the possibility of buying each resident a garbage ticket and potentially holding a public hearing for residents to be able to voice their concerns. The board decided at the meeting to continue to look into the matter, but no decision had been made until recently.

“The village of Panama is continuing its normal curbside garbage pick up for residents,” Schneider said. “The village board did not cancel service. The topic was a discussion point at the last board meeting.”

Additionally, Schneider said financial responsibility for the board is key in order to match up services with annual funds raised, which is why the topic was being discussed. Schneider and the board have been receiving calls from village residents with concerns following the meeting and article.

“Many residents have called in a panic wondering where they will get their garbage service from,” Schneider said. “The aging residents rely on this service to help them out.”

The village board apologized for any misunderstandings village residents may have had after seeing the previous article and Schneider said if it does get to the point of a change, residents will be asked for input.

“The board also wants residents to know that if or when such time a change is needed that they will involve residents for input,” Schneider said. “Residents are reminded that the garbage pick up remains as scheduled.”