Council reviews proposed curbside recycling program; Aspen Waste recommended at $7.75/month, award delayed to March 10

City staff briefed the council on a proposed residential curbside recycling program and the request for proposals process on Feb. 24, recommending Aspen Waste, an Ames-based hauler, as the city's partner.

The presentation described a five-year contract with service starting in July, distribution of 96-gallon carts to eligible single-family and small multifamily residences and a recommended monthly fee of $7.75 per household. Staff said house-side service would be available by application for elderly or disabled residents and that the city will run outreach and education to reduce contamination in recycling streams.

"And then onto the pricing, we're at $7.75 per month, per household," the presenter said during the briefing. Staff noted that about half of the fee covers the hauler and cart costs, with other portions covering R3C transfer and administrative work; staff also warned that disposal costs could fluctuate with market conditions.

Thor Nelson of Aspen Waste Systems said the company was "very invested in this community" and offered to answer council questions.

Council praised the staff work and asked for additional details on multifamily options, glass collection, and enforcement of opt-outs. Council voted to accept the report and to place a direct-award item on the March 10 agenda for final approval rather than awarding the contract at this meeting.

Next steps: staff will continue outreach, finalize contract terms with Aspen Waste, and return on March 10 for a contract award vote.