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Waste management workers warn council of understaffing, aging fleet and safety risks
Summary
Waste management employees and supervisors told the April 22 hearing that staffing shortages, overused trucks and limited preventive maintenance are causing safety incidents and high repair needs; commenters asked council to fund higher pay, more staff and better equipment.
Several waste management employees and supervisors addressed City Council on April 22 about staffing levels, fleet reliability and safety concerns in the city’s waste collection operations.
Brandon Goodrich described an overstressed fleet and a shortfall of drivers and mechanics, saying the department operates at or near capacity and cannot perform preventive maintenance during the day. "We are the only mechanic shop with a night shift because we are unable to perform preventative maintenance during the day," Goodrich said, and urged higher pay to recruit and retain staff.
Alfred McClenny told council the department is "understaffed by 20 to 30 men" and described a recent run of accidents and rollovers he attributed to fatigue and insufficient staffing. He urged pay‑grade changes that he said would make the city more competitive for personnel.
Brad Belton, a waste management operator, recommended the city capture revenue it is leaving to private contractors — for example, by taking over commercial dumpster or school collection contracts now served by outside vendors — to increase department funds rather than rely only on tax increases.
Workers also asked for practical benefits: doubling the boot stipend, more efficient tool reimbursement and faster procurement to keep crews safe and productive.
Why it matters: Commenters said persistent understaffing and an aging fleet increase accident risk, maintenance costs and service disruptions. They asked council to consider recruitment and pay strategies, operational revenue opportunities and capital investments in trucks and maintenance facilities.
No council action was taken during the hearing; comments were recorded for budget deliberations.
