Council keeps current Waste Connections contract and directs staff to pursue RFP next cycle

City staff presented comparative rates and pilot results for carted solid-waste service and recommended council direction on whether to negotiate with Waste Connections for carted service, accept twice-weekly carted pickup at a higher monthly rate, or pursue an RFP. Staff noted the current contract (non-carted twice-weekly service) provides a $15.22 monthly rate through 2028 and described pilot program feedback where once-per-week carted service produced compliance and resident complaints about frequency and storage capacity.

Council members discussed enforcement options, the ability to require properly sized cans under the current contract, and whether to pass increased costs to residents. One council member argued carted service addresses damage and missed-pickup complaints because the cart is company property; another voiced concern about raising rates for residents on fixed incomes. Ultimately, council voted to continue the current Waste Connections contract for now and requested staff develop an RFP and stronger contract terms for the next procurement cycle so the city can require performance standards and explore alternative vendors.

Staff will return with an RFP timeline and contract language options that include stronger enforcement provisions and potential penalties for contractor performance problems.