Asheville – Social media is buzzing with discussions about FCC, the new garbage service contracted by Buncombe County, and the feedback is largely negative. Service began on January 1st, but there are dozens of complaints regarding missing trash bins, lack of service, no billing, or, worse, being billed for services never received. To make matters worse, the cost is higher than what locals previously paid for WastePro.
Major Complaints
Here is a sampling of the problems people have shared on NextDoor, a local social media platform, in an effort to seek help. To protect individuals’ privacy, these quotes are kept anonymous.
“Billing dept does not answer the phone….ever. They don’t send an invoice. It is impossible to reach anyone to pay for the service. They said my payment was declined…what payment? The person who answers the phone says they cannot help? What to do? Anybody know? Please help if you do.”
“They sent me an invoice saying I owe them $85.95, but I don’t and never have had an account with them. And you are right, no one answers the phone.”
“We are experiencing the same thing. No bill, no help over the phone locally, no one will answer the billing department phone number or respond to a direct email. Although we set up my email and paid to start service when they took over, the online system doesn’t even recognize that we are registered with them. We are at a loss as to what to do now.”
“In December, when they were starting up, I ordered a bear can which costs more money. They have charged me for it every month since January, but I have never received the bear trash can. The billing department does nothing for the customer.”
One person complained that FCC picked up everyone’s trash except his. There were no issues; they simply skipped him. He called three separate times, and they promised to come, but never did.
The bins are cheaply made and lightweight. Wind blows them open, sending trash into neighbors yards.
A few people who did receive bills got them via email but were hesitant to provide a credit card number online. Through their searches, they found a mailing address and sent a check. However, with so many people either receiving no billing invoice for up to five months, or receiving one for an account they don’t have, questions arise about whether these accounts are sent to collections or reported to credit bureaus.
Buncombe County Assistance
Several individuals sought help through Buncombe County commissioners, with mixed results—some received assistance while others did not get a callback. Some claimed they had to visit the FCC local office at 3109 Sweeten Creek Road for resolution.
Through another social media post, it was revealed that there is a new phone number that people may not be aware of: (828) 820-7022.
In researching this issue, it was discovered that a complaint page has been established by the county for anyone facing challenges. Visit https://www.buncombecounty.org/countycenter/news-detail.aspx?id=21859. If you scroll down, you will see a link highlighted that says “please fill out this issue tracker form.”
How To Pay
A new page was added in April to the Buncombe County solid waste website, outlining payment options and how to set up an online account. FCC customers have three payment options:
Mail check to: PO Box 654383, Dallas, TX 75265
Drop off at Local Office: 3109 Sweeten Creek Road, Asheville, NC 28803
Payment Portal
To sign up for the online payment portal, go to https://www.buncombecounty.org/countycenter/news-detail.aspx?id=22082&agency=68 and follow the instructions. If you need assistance, call FCC at 828-820-7022, and the FCC team can guide you through the process.