Superior Council considers free landfill drop-off days for Douglas County residents

The Superior Common Council meeting on June 19, 2025, sparked a heated discussion about extending free landfill drop-off days to Douglas County residents. Currently, the city offers four free drop-off days each year, but the proposal aims to allow residents from outside the city limits to participate in these events.

Council members expressed concerns about the financial implications of providing free garbage services, which could cost the city upwards of $40,000 annually. The discussion highlighted the need for a careful review of the budget, especially given the city's responsibility for tipping fees at the landfill, which amount to $20 per ton for state fees and $13 per ton for municipal waste.

Director Gessman confirmed that landfill staff check IDs to ensure users are from Superior or Douglas County, but questions arose about how to verify residency for those with out-of-county plates. Councilor Fensler suggested using ZIP codes as a simple method for verification, while other members raised concerns about the potential for increased landfill usage and its impact on the remaining capacity.

Despite the motion to approve the extension of free drop-off days to Douglas County residents, it ultimately failed to receive a second, leaving the proposal on hold. The council's decision reflects ongoing challenges in balancing community support with fiscal responsibility as they navigate the complexities of waste management in the region.