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Council amends trash-can ordinance language, removes specific gallon limit and moves item to second reading
Summary
Council voted on Oct. 6 to remove a numeric can-size cap in the proposed trash-and-garbage container ordinance, replacing the size requirement with a functional standard (handle and lid) and sending the revised ordinance to second reading.
St. Albans City Council amended language in a proposed ordinance on Oct. 6 that would have required a specific minimum/maximum container size for residential trash receptacles. Council members expressed concerns about enforcement and the burden on residents who already own larger cans.
Council discussion cited examples of households that use larger containers—one council member said a neighbor uses a 100-gallon container for a special-needs adult—and noted that specifying a single gallon size could create unintended hardship. After debate the council voted to strike the numeric gallon-size requirement and replace it with a performance-based description: trash receptacles must have a lid and handle and not exceed container capacity limits described elsewhere in the ordinance. The council then voted to send the ordinance as amended to second reading.
Why it matters: The change avoids forcing residents who already own larger cans to buy new containers and narrows enforcement questions about special circumstances. Council members emphasized the city's interest in preventing wildlife and rodent access by ensuring lids and handles are used on containers.
What passed: On a voice vote the council approved the amendment to remove the numeric size and carried the motion to send the revised ordinance to second reading.
Next steps: The ordinance will return for a second reading with the revised language; further amendments may be made then.
