The City of New Bedford is claiming a major legal victory in a longstanding dispute with its trash and recycling contractor, ABC Disposal Services.

The dispute began in 2017 when ABC demanded that the City pay a higher rate for the disposal of its recyclables, because of increased costs charged by China to accept the recycled material. The City refused to pay more, saying it already had a 10-year, fixed price contract with ABC.

The parties sued each other in 2018 with the disposal company seeking $2 million in damages.

According to a press release issued by the City, a Superior Court jury issed its verdict on Friday, saying ABC Disposal Services cannot be released from its contract with the City, and must continue to perform under the terms of the present contract, which expires in 2023.

The jury also ruled the City is not liable for any damages.

Mayor Jon Mitchell said he was pleased with the verdict, adding "when it comes to the interest of city taxpayers, we won't roll over."

WBSM News reached the President of ABC Disposal, Michael Camara by phone Saturday afternoon but he declined to discuss the verdict, saying he had no comment at this time.

Information from the City of New Bedford

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