Le Mars council discusses missed trash pickups, new contractor transition and possible lid ordinance

The Le Mars City Council on Jan. 7 discussed complaints about missed residential trash and recycling pickups over the holidays after Advance (the local hauler) was sold to LJP Waste Solutions of Mankato, Minnesota.

City Administrator Jason said he had spoken with local manager Mike Gotti and Sheldon Swinson in Mankato, who acknowledged holiday staffing and vehicle issues had caused delays. "They had a truck they had truck issues, which got them behind. They've had some office issues also," Jason said, adding the company told him residential collections should be back on schedule and that the company asked for through the week to clear backlogs.

Jason said the city's contract requires the hauler to resolve missed pickups by the next business day and asked the company to improve communication with city hall when issues arise so residents calling the city can be directed to accurate information. Councilmembers told residents to leave material at curb if missed rather than pull it back in so workers can collect if crews run late.

Councilmembers also raised concerns about trash blowing from containers and suggested the city review its code or ordinance to require that lids be kept closed. Staff said they would check existing ordinances and return with clarification; one councilmember noted the city previously discussed minimizing water in bins during winter months and that some lids may not stay shut in strong wind.

No formal action or ordinance change was adopted at the meeting; the item remained a discussion and staff follow-up was requested.