Council approves temporary assignment of municipal waste hauling to Blackburn Cattle Co.; staff to rebid contract

City staff informed council on March 4 that Precision Demolition informed the city it could not finish the existing municipal solid‑waste hauling contract due to unforeseen circumstances. The city requested an assignment of the contract to Blackburn Cattle Company, Inc. (Douglas) to ensure uninterrupted hauling while staff prepares a new solicitation.

Cody (staff) briefed council and said Precision Demolition attempted to identify interim drivers but could not. Blackburn Cattle Company agreed to help immediately and accept an assignment while the city goes to bid for a longer‑term hauler. Staff asked council to approve a temporary assignment so Blackburn can operate under the current contract’s terms while the city finalizes a new contract and finishes the procurement steps.

Council action and next steps

Council approved the assignment, and staff said they will immediately begin drafting and issuing a bid for a permanent hauler. Staff emphasized they will limit any early investment the interim operator makes until the city completes procurement and awards a new contract. Several council members expressed a preference for local bidders when feasible.

Why it matters

The assignment was framed as an operational emergency response intended to maintain service continuity while the procurement process takes place. Council and staff said prompt rebidding will clarify the long‑term provider and preserve local options.