Ken Smith’s office is filled with reminders of what a truly local business means to the community.
Trophies from local sports teams sponsored by the 23-year-old business and photos of family members combine to reflect a truly local family business.
‘There’s not many family-owned garbage businesses left,? said Smith. ‘We’re the only large independent company left in the northern area.?
Customers appreciate the local service, and Smith’s Disposal appreciates that customers choose them to provide pickup and recycling services in Springfield, Independence, Waterford and Brandon townships as well as portions of Holly, Groveland and Orion townships.
This past year, the company purchased a new garbage truck and a new recycling truck. Since garbage trucks can cost as much as $150,000, that represents a significant investment in continued local service. About 37 employees keep busy with eight residential garbage pickup routes, three recycling routes a rolloff route and one commercial Dumpster route.
The business is a year-round affair, and Smith’s Disposal could give the postal service a run on their familiar slogan of dependability.
‘I can’t remember a day we did not run,? Smith said.
Smith, his mother Doris and his sister Carol Evans all share ownership. The company’s longtime owner, Leonard H. Smith, Ken’s father, died six and a half years ago.
Originally, the Smith family owned Clarkston Fuel and Supply for more than 20 years.
During that time, Ken also worked the summers driving an extra garbage truck for Ben Powell Disposal on Clarkston Road. The Powell family, who ran their business for 30 years, discussed selling, which led to the Smith’s acquisition of the company and relocation.
Smith’s Disposal is also involved in many aspects of community life, including membership with the Clarkston Area Chamber of Commerce and the Clarkston Area Optimist Club.
For several years, the company has been a significant sponsor of the Clarkston High School graduate all-night party, and they sponsor youth baseball teams in Clarkston and Waterford as well.
Smith’s Disposal and Recycling, Inc. is located at 5750 Terex, just off of Andersonville Road, in Springfield Township. Office hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Call (248) 625-5470 for more information