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Durham weighs outsourcing curbside trash after staffing and truck troubles
Summary
Officials described staffing shortages and failing trucks in DPW that are straining curbside trash and recycling; the town has received a Waste Management proposal estimated at about $70,000 more annually than current in‑house costs, and councilors said any outsourcing would not begin until at least next July while capital investments remain on hold.
Town officials told the Durham Town Council on Sept. 15 that curbside trash and recycling services are under pressure from staffing shortages and maintenance issues with collection trucks.
At an IWMAC update, DPW Director Rich Reine and Assistant Director Sam Hewitt described operational challenges; Chair Pro Tem Sally Needell and others said staffing and truck failures are complicating curbside collection. Administrator Todd Selig said the town has received a proposal from Waste Management that would cost roughly $70,000 more than current expenditures but that staff view outsourcing as a potentially worthwhile option, noting a likely start date of July of the next fiscal year if pursued.
Councilors discussed capital investment decisions (currently on hold) and the town’s difficulty hiring mechanics and collection staff. Needell said the IWMAC appreciated DPW’s briefing and will continue to provide feedback. Administrator Selig said other town staff have been filling in as needed and that the Council will hear a staff presentation with more details before any decision on outsourcing.
What’s next: staff will return with more detailed cost comparisons and options for outsourcing or keeping services in‑house; any contract change appears likely to take effect no earlier than July.
