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After automated garbage truck crash, Helena council approves short-term contract to maintain pickup
Summary
A collision heavily damaged an automated sanitation truck; the council authorized a short-term contract at $125 per hour to keep residential collection on schedule while insurance and replacement options are assessed.
The Helena City Council authorized a short-term emergency contract to maintain residential garbage pickup after an automated garbage truck was struck on Fourth Street on the morning of Sept. 16 and suffered heavy damage.
Staff described the crash and said the truck’s rear mechanisms and wheels were dislodged; staff estimated the truck was likely to be totaled and that an insurance adjuster would inspect the vehicle the following Monday. The damaged unit was an automated truck with a mechanical arm that had previously experienced service issues; the city purchased a rear-end loader truck in 2016, but this automated unit handled more route volume.
To avoid missed routes, the council approved a one-week contract for a private contractor at $125 per hour to pick up residential routes while the city completes insurance and replacement research. The motion was moved by Miss Davis and seconded by Miss Miller; the council approved the emergency contract by roll call (votes recorded in the minutes as yes).
Staff said they will track overtime and contracting costs and return to the council with an estimate of replacement cost once the adjuster reports. City leadership said the adjuster’s inspection and market search for replacement vehicles will inform any further procurement decisions.
Next steps: The city will assess the insurance settlement, search for available replacement trucks and report back to the council, with staff recommending further action if the truck is declared a total loss.
