Council approves first reading of solid‑waste code changes to end curbside cardboard and tighten lid rules

Billings City Council voted 10–1 to approve the first reading of an ordinance amending the city’s solid-waste code (BMCC Article 21-200), including ending curbside cardboard collection and tightening bagging and container-lid standards.

Presenter Jennifer Duray told the council the changes respond to prior direction to end curbside cardboard collection and to clarify collection standards and landfill eligibility. She said the code will require items that "could be blown away" to be bagged and will restore a lid-closed standard that staff will enforce. "So I just wanna reiterate, it's an able to be closed standard. So we are not penalizing people for the wind," Duray said, noting staff will continue to pick up carts that are able to be closed but may program routes so drivers can flag broken containers for replacement.

The ordinance also updates alley-cart placement rules, clarifies that the city will replace carts damaged by normal wear at no charge, and adds cost‑recovery authority to clean hazards or unbagged spills and bill the responsible party. Duray said the landfill section was strengthened to allow the city to charge for customer-caused property damage and to call law enforcement if operators fail to follow rules.

Council members asked about customer options, enforcement and transition. Council member Andrew Lindley confirmed that customers can buy an extra 96-gallon cart for $5.25 per month and that staff will work to note broken lids during routes. Bill Kennedy said he opposed the motion, seeking more clarity on the lid rule, but the ordinance passed with Kennedy the lone no vote.

If approved on second reading the council plans to begin customer education immediately and implement the changes 30 days after final adoption.