Built on Experience. Rooted in Valpo.

Before founding Bin Buddies, longtime friends Jacob and Tyler spent years serving the Valparaiso community through their work in the city’s sanitation department. Along the way, they gained more than just hands-on experience — they developed a genuine appreciation for the neighborhoods, the people, and the community they call home.

While their careers with the City of Valparaiso have since taken them into different departments, their dedication to serving the community remains unchanged.

With that experience came a simple idea: to turn their knowledge and dedication into a service that makes everyday life a little easier for their neighbors.

Today, they’re proud to bring that vision to life through Bin Buddies, combining dependable service with the personal touch of a locally owned business.

Because taking care of our community is what we know best.

Meet Your Bin Buddies

The friendly faces behind the bins, proudly serving the community we call home.

Jacob Wasz

Co-Founder & Owner-Operator

Having spent years serving the Valparaiso community, Jacob understands the importance of the work that happens behind the scenes to keep a community running. As a Maintenance Technician at Valparaiso’s Wastewater Treatment Plant, he brings a strong sense of responsibility, attention to detail, and a commitment to excellence in everything he does.

When he’s off the clock, Jacob enjoys hitting the golf course, casting a line whenever he gets the chance, and making memories with family and friends.

For Jacob, Bin Buddies is a chance to build something meaningful of his own — a business defined by hard work, quality service, and being there for his neighbors when they need an extra helping hand.

Tyler Smithson

Co-Founder & Owner-Operator

A familiar face around Valpo, Tyler has spent years working in public service throughout the community he's come to know so well. As a Certified Line Clearance Arborist with the City of Valparaiso’s Public Works Department, he understands the importance of the people and essential services that keep a community thriving.

Outside of work, Tyler enjoys mountain biking, spending time outdoors with family and friends, and going fishing with his fellow co-founder Jacob.

For Tyler, Bin Buddies is an opportunity to build on the values that have always guided his work — providing a service his neighbors can count on, taking pride in a job well done, and making everyday life a little easier for those around him.

Brooke Smithson

Marketing & Communications Director

With a background in financial services and a natural passion for connecting with others, Brooke brings a people-first approach to Bin Buddies. From customer communications to building community relationships, she enjoys creating meaningful connections and making sure every neighbor feels valued.

Outside of work, Brooke is happiest with her hands in the garden, a new creative project underway, or finding little ways to make everyday life more intentional.

For Brooke, being part of Bin Buddies is an opportunity to combine her professional experience with her passion for helping others — bringing people together, strengthening community connections, and making a positive difference in the lives of those around her.

Our Commitment

At Bin Buddies, we know that trust is earned through actions, not just promises. That’s why we’re committed to providing a service built around consistency, care, and the peace of mind that comes from knowing the little things are taken care of.

We believe that something as simple as taking the trash bins to the curb shouldn’t be another thing weighing on your mind. Our goal is to make that part of your routine effortless, giving you one less responsibility to juggle and a little more time for what matters most.

From the way we handle your bins to the way we communicate with you, we hold ourselves to a standard of service that reflects our values. Every home deserves to be treated with respect, every customer deserves to feel appreciated, and every commitment deserves to be honored.

Because to us, it’s more than moving trash bins. It’s about showing up, following through, and being the kind of neighbors you can count on.

Independent Business Disclaimer

Bin Buddies LLC is an independently owned and operated business and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by the City of Valparaiso. Any references to our founders’ previous or current municipal employment are provided solely as professional background and do not imply a partnership or affiliation with the City.