News | Port St. Lucie

Port St. Lucie Receives $24 Million Settlement From Waste Pro After Contract Dispute

April 11, 2026
10:50 am

Port St. Lucie has secured a $24 million settlement from its former trash hauler, Waste Pro of Florida (official company website), following years of service complaints, legal disputes, and a failed solid waste collection contract. The settlement, which resolves all outstanding claims, marks the end of litigation that began in 2021 and intensified in 2022, according to official sources. For a comprehensive overview of the legal proceedings and settlement details, see the full report on the Waste Pro contract lawsuit and settlement.

Port St. Lucie and Waste Pro Settle Long-Running Legal Dispute

The main keyword, Port St. Lucie, features prominently in this significant legal and financial development. According to the City of Port St. Lucie (official city government website), the settlement was reached after extensive negotiations and just days before a scheduled trial on April 13, 2026. Both parties agreed that a negotiated resolution was in the best interest of the city and its residents.

Background: Waste Pro Contract Issues in Port St. Lucie

The dispute began when the City of Port St. Lucie filed litigation against Waste Pro of Florida in 2021. The lawsuit cited performance issues with Waste Pro’s service and the premature cancellation of its multi-year contract, which forced the city to quickly secure a new waste collection provider. According to city officials, the abrupt end to the contract created service disruptions and prompted numerous resident complaints. Additionally, residents should be aware that waste disposal rates are set to rise in Port St. Lucie this November, which may impact household budgets.

Details of the $24 Million Settlement Agreement

The agreement includes a cash payment of $24 million to the City of Port St. Lucie. According to the city’s official statement, this payment fully resolves the lawsuit and requires both sides to release each other from all outstanding claims. The case will be formally dismissed as part of the settlement terms.

City Council to Decide Use of Settlement Funds

According to the City of Port St. Lucie, the City Council and staff will review options for the appropriate use of the settlement funds. These options will be discussed at future Council workshops or public meetings. City officials have not yet specified how the funds will be allocated, but the process will include public input and transparency. In light of recent budget considerations, the city has also taken steps to reduce expenses, such as the decision to close the solid waste drop-off center to save $2 million annually.

Litigation Timeline and Service Complaints

The legal dispute between Port St. Lucie and Waste Pro began in 2021, with the city alleging multiple service failures. According to city records, complaints included missed pickups, delayed collections, and communication issues. The litigation expanded in 2022 as the city sought damages for the abrupt contract termination and the costs associated with finding a replacement hauler.

Mayor’s Statement on Settlement

Mayor Shannon M. Martin commented on the agreement, stating, “This settlement will bring closure to a challenging time for the City. Closing this chapter will allow us to move forward and better serve our residents.”

Official Sources and Ongoing Updates

According to the City of Port St. Lucie, all information regarding the settlement and future use of funds will be made available through official channels. Details may be updated as the City Council reviews options and makes decisions in upcoming meetings. Residents are encouraged to follow city announcements for the latest updates. For more information, visit the official City of Port St. Lucie website.

Frequently Asked Questions About Port St. Lucie Waste Pro Settlement

What is the Port St. Lucie Waste Pro settlement?

The Port St. Lucie Waste Pro settlement is a $24 million agreement resolving all legal claims between the city and its former waste hauler, Waste Pro, after service complaints and a contract dispute.

How much did Port St. Lucie receive from Waste Pro?

The City of Port St. Lucie received $24 million as part of the settlement agreement with Waste Pro.

Are there plans for how the settlement funds will be used?

City Council and staff will review options for using the settlement funds. Decisions will be discussed at future public meetings, and residents can provide input.

Can residents attend meetings about the settlement fund allocation?

Yes, residents can attend City Council workshops and public meetings where the use of settlement funds will be discussed. Meeting details are available on the city’s official website.