Weselaco approves month-to-month route-management system to modernize solid-waste operations

Weselaco's Public Works Department recommended awarding a route-management RFP to Waste Innovations Inc., and the commission approved the award on Oct. 8.

Public Works staff said three proposals were received and that Waste Innovations best met the city's needs for route optimization, geofencing, automated imagery to detect whether cans are at the curb and integration with the city's billing system (encode). Staff described an initial setup cost of roughly $39,850 and a recurring monthly fee of about $4,646; because the contract is month‑to‑month there is no long-term commitment and staff said it reduces the risk of extended price increases.

"Following the reviews of the written proposals, presentations, Waste Innovations clearly distinguished itself as the most qualified vendor," the presenter said, noting staff demonstrations and written evaluations. Commissioners asked whether the change reduces service quality or functionality; staff answered that the new system was judged to be a better value with enhanced features for drivers, supervisors and customer notification. Staff said budgeted funds of $65,000 cover ongoing costs and the initial setup will be absorbed within department budget adjustments.

Commissioners also asked about potential savings and whether a multi‑year discount would be available; staff said the vendor preferred a month‑to‑month arrangement to avoid long-term commitments and offered no immediate multi‑year discount. The commission approved the RFP award by voice vote. Staff will oversee the implementation and integration with existing billing and route data.

What happens next: Public Works will complete initial system setup, issue tablets/cameras for route capture and begin phased integration with billing and customer notifications.