Correia Ends Controversial Trash Program in Fall River

Fall River Mayor Jasiel Correia II is ending the controversial "pay as you throw" trash collection program in the city.

According to the Herald News, Correia made the announcement Tuesday during a news conference at Government Center.

The program, with its purple trash bags, started in July of 2014 under Mayor Will Flanagan.

Correia has sought to do away with the program several times since taking office, but could not garner support from the City Council, which was concerned over the loss of $2 million in revenue.

Correia says based on state and local budget projections, he's confident the city will be able to withstand the loss of revenue in this fiscal year and going forward.

Correia also acknowledged the move was political but says it will have a positive outcome for literally every resident in the city.

Correia is facing a recall election next month. He was indicted by a federal grand jury last year on wire fraud charges and has pleaded not guilty.