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Council reviews trash-survey results and debates moving away from colored-bag system to can-based collection
Summary
Staff presented a trash-survey of 550 respondents showing mixed support for a bin system; council debated pilot cans, truck/arm purchases, fees per can, continuing bag options for some residents, and next steps for budgeting and procurement.
City staff presented results of a public trash survey and council discussed options to move away from the colored-bag system toward a can-based or contracted service.
The survey (about 550 respondents) found 78% use the transfer station and 22% use the city 'Citi bags'; respondents expressed complaints about bag cost, aesthetics and animals. When asked about bringing bins to Crookston, 52% said they were likely or very likely to support an optional bin-based service; 33% were unlikely. Staff recommended moving forward with purchasing an arm attachment for a collection truck and a trial set of cans.
Council debate focused on costs, staffing and equipment: members discussed an opt-in can system with a $10–$15 annual can fee to replace bag revenue, whether colored bags should remain for elderly residents who prefer them, and whether the city has the staffing and appropriate truck to collect cans. One council member urged getting a budgeted truck to automate collection over time; staff said an arm and an initial can purchase are budgeted as a trial.
Next steps: staff will present detailed cost estimates, proposed can-count for the pilot and procurement options; they will report back to council to finalize purchase and implementation plans.
