City Council evaluates waste management contract amid performance and accountability concerns

The Providence City Council meeting on June 5, 2025, focused heavily on the city's waste management contract, which has faced ongoing performance issues. Council members expressed concerns about the reliability of the current waste management provider and discussed measures to enhance accountability and service quality.

Councilor Graves emphasized the need for improved oversight, proposing that the waste management company be required to submit an annual performance report to the council. This report would allow council members to address complaints directly and evaluate the company's adherence to the contract. Graves highlighted the importance of understanding how complaints are currently being managed, suggesting that a more systematic approach could improve service delivery.

Councilman Peterson echoed these sentiments, noting that many residents have reported missed trash pickups. He called for the council to conduct its own research on the volume of complaints received, which would provide valuable data during discussions with the waste management provider. Peterson expressed skepticism about the current contract, which amounts to $57 million over five years, and suggested that the council should explore alternative options.

Councilman Sanchez raised concerns about the lack of discussion regarding the waste management contract within the Public Works Committee, questioning the administration's communication and engagement with council members on this critical issue.

The meeting concluded with a call for further collaboration between the council and the Department of Public Works to address recycling and waste management challenges. As the city approaches the contract's renewal, council members are pushing for greater transparency and accountability to ensure that residents receive reliable waste management services.