City Council Work MTG 011226

Friday, February 13, 2026

Areas of Interest (5)

Council debates transition to organized municipal waste collection vs. market-based hauling.
Concerns over road damage by heavy vehicles: Are garbage trucks or school buses the real culprits?
Expert testimony suggests organized waste collection increases administrative headcount and costs.
Subsidy shell games: Are lower garbage bills in other cities just a shift of costs to general funds?
Conflict of interest or transparency: Industry lobbyists advising city council on garbage contract privatization.

My purpose here tonight isn't to come in and tell you that changing your garbage system is some sort of inherent evil.
— Chris Dila Forest

Garbage hauling transitionOpening remarks regarding the debate on organized collection.

I have never seen a road savings in 23 years.
— Chris Dila Forest

Road infrastructureRefuting claims that organized collection saves road maintenance costs.

If you move to the other system, you're picking the hauler for the person. And if there's bad service, they're going to call you.
— Dave Wiggins

Government accountabilityWarning council members about shifted customer service responsibilities.

MattCity Administrator/Staff

Coordinates city meetings, manages recycling facility and staff communication.

Dave WigginsACE Waste Hauler Representative

Industry veteran offering perspectives on hauler contracts and historical context.

1 quote

“If you don't like what you're getting from one hauler, pick up the phone and call another and be a smart shopper.”

Advocating for the current competitive market system.

Chris Dila ForestFormer State Rep / Lobbyist

Lobbies for ACE and other haulers; expert on waste collection statutes.

1 quote

“I have never seen a city that has moved to this type of system not have to hire additional FTE to deal with it.”

Discussing the administrative burden of organized collection systems.

East BethelHam LakeAnokaRichfieldMounds ViewSt. FrancisElk River