Seaside City Council postpones decision on green waste services amid resident concerns

In the heart of Seaside, Oregon, the City Council convened for a work session that sparked a lively discussion about waste management services, particularly focusing on green waste disposal. As council members gathered under the warm glow of city hall lights, the conversation quickly turned to the challenges and costs associated with providing curbside green waste services to residents.

One council member expressed hesitation about implementing a green dumpster program, questioning whether residents could order and pay for such services independently. The response revealed that while some cities, like Astoria, offer yard debris curbside, Seaside does not have a subscription model for this service. Instead, residents typically dispose of their yard debris in their regular garbage cans, which has raised concerns about the environmental impact and the effectiveness of current waste management practices.

The council acknowledged that the existing green waste service is underutilized, with only a small fraction of residents likely to take advantage of it. This led to a broader discussion about the financial implications of continuing the service, as the costs of providing it could burden the entire community, especially if only a few households benefit. Council members voiced a desire to hear from residents before making any commitments, emphasizing the importance of community input in such decisions.

As the meeting progressed, the council also discussed the potential discontinuation of the green waste service, weighing the benefits against the demands on the public works department. Some members argued that the responsibility for green waste collection should not fall on city staff, suggesting that it might be more efficient to contract the service out to a private company.

In a significant move, the council ultimately decided to approve a resolution adjusting solid waste collection rates, but opted to forego the green waste services for the time being. This decision reflects a cautious approach to managing city resources while considering the needs and preferences of Seaside residents.

The meeting concluded with a glimpse into future initiatives, including a mattress take-back event scheduled for June, aimed at addressing waste disposal issues in a more sustainable manner. As the council members wrapped up their discussions, it was clear that the path forward would require careful consideration of both community needs and environmental responsibilities.