Tony Carson, director of Solid Waste & Equipment Services, presented the division’s FY2025–26 budget overview to the City Council on July 7, described operational accomplishments and challenges and proposed budget offers that include new crews, mechanics and equipment purchases.

Carson said Equipment Services maintains a fleet of more than 1,300 vehicles and pieces of equipment with a staff of 25 (one current vacancy); the shop achieved an average fleet availability of 94% last year. He listed challenges including frequent changes in OEM repair standards, limited access to manufacturer diagnostic platforms and insufficient sheltered work areas for larger vehicles. To address workload he requested funding for an additional mechanic paid from commercial solid waste revenue.

On residential waste, Carson said the division has 74 positions with nine vacancies and is adjusting routes to meet growth. Commercial solid waste and new industrial business have increased demand; commercial recycling and roll‑off services expanded, producing revenue that Carson said has exceeded projections. He explained the department's approach to recruitment and an internal promotion pipeline from residential to commercial services in order to retain staff.

Notable budget offers include three additional residential solid‑waste crews (three crew chiefs and three helpers) tied to growth, a CDL examiner/trainer to keep licensing and testing in‑house, four senior heavy equipment operators for commercial operations and three additional roll‑off trucks. Carson said an added hook‑lift unit (a Class 7 hook‑lift) would allow 10‑yard containers to be placed in alleys and driveways, improving service for renovation projects.

Carson proposed a pilot bulk bag program in which residents could purchase an approved bag (proposed $50) to deposit renovation or small construction debris; Solid Waste crews would pick up bagged loads at no additional fee. He described the bag program as an initial pilot that could be tied to permitting or other customer channels if effective. Councilmembers asked about enforcement, pricing and education; staff said the program is designed to save field crew time and reduce unsafe curbside loads and would be implemented with an outreach campaign.

Carson said commercial solid waste billing is handled in‑house and collections are strong. He asked that full funding be included for equipment and staff requested in the proposal, noting that certain capital orders require long lead times.