Commission approves nearly $394,213 automated garbage truck after staff outlines safety and efficiency aims

The Yankton City Commission approved the purchase of a 2025 Labrie Automizer ARM automated solid-waste truck from Sanitation Products Inc. of Sioux Falls for $394,213 for the Department of Public Works Solid Waste Division.

Amy, a Public Works staff member, told commissioners the truck is a fully automated model that uses a mechanical arm to lift and tip residential roll carts, which the city hopes will improve worker safety and collection efficiency. Amy said crews face narrow alleys in some neighborhoods that may require continued use of manual or hybrid equipment in those areas, but that a hybrid fleet could work well for Yankton.

Amy described safety concerns for crew members who currently ride on the backs of trucks, noting risks from traffic, distracted drivers and extreme weather that can make the job difficult. She said the city tested a demonstration of the truck with staff members Adam and Corey, and that carts will need to be placed separately (not jammed together) for the arm to operate. Amy said delivery is expected in 2026, giving staff time to prepare crews and public communications about route selection and cart placement.

A motion to approve the $394,213 purchase was made, seconded and passed by roll-call vote: Weber — aye; Benson — aye; (Bruenig/Bruenig spelling in roll call) — aye; Sarta — aye; Hanoff — aye; Minor — aye; Mosher — aye; Villanueva — aye; Mayor Schromm — aye. The mayor announced the motion carried.

The agenda and staff remarks did not specify trade-ins, financing terms, long-term operating-cost estimates or which routes would receive the truck first; staff said those operational details would be worked out before delivery.