During a recent city council meeting, Broomfield officials discussed a proposed contract for residential waste diversion services aimed at reducing landfill waste as part of the city’s ambitious zero waste goals established in 2020. The council is considering a five-year agreement with Waste Connections of Colorado, which would provide weekly trash collection and bi-weekly curbside recycling for eligible residents.

The initiative is designed to increase the city's waste diversion rate from its current 20-22% to 50% by 2025. City staff emphasized that achieving this target will require a combination of strategies, including making recycling more accessible and implementing volume-based pricing to encourage reduced waste generation. Under the proposed plan, residents would have the option to choose between different cart sizes, with smaller carts costing significantly less, thereby incentivizing lower waste production.

The council also addressed concerns raised by residents regarding the impact of trash trucks on street maintenance. A study from Fort Collins indicated that trash trucks contribute to 24% of residential street maintenance costs, a figure that could be reduced to 8% under the new contract.

Public feedback on the proposed contract has been mixed, with recent correspondence showing 41% support and 59% opposition among the 70 residents who reached out. The council acknowledged the importance of community input and plans to continue engaging with residents as the initiative progresses.

The ordinance accompanying the contract would establish the legal framework for the waste services, including provisions for residents to opt out of the program for a fee. It also mandates that non-exempt residents separate recyclables from trash to minimize contamination.

As the council prepares to make a decision, they are considering the long-term benefits of the contract, including improved waste management and potential cost savings for the city. The outcome of this meeting could significantly shape Broomfield's approach to waste management and sustainability in the coming years.