2011-02-22_PWETC_Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Chair DeBenedet suggested that, prior to proceeding with a focus group as previously discussed by Members, more defined information was needed on how that group would operate. Member Vanderwall noted that the only people showing up at PWET Commission meetings were haulers, and suggested a separate hauler focus group from a user focus group; to ensure that the full story was heard from all parties, not a vocal minority. Chair DeBenedet reviewed topics for the March meeting, including: Traffic management policy Undergrounding ordinance Coal Tar Ban ordinance Erosion Control (time- sensitive) Organized Waste Update with Joel Hansen Chair DeBenedet asked that when staff could arrange this meeting with Mr. Hansen, that both he and Mr. Pratt attend to allow a in ore comprehensive discussion on the same evening. Chair DeBenedet also suggested that staff make specific outreach to a representative of the Roseville Concerned Citizens (RCL) and the League of Women Voters (LWV). Public Comment Michael Bay, Ace Solid Waste As a refuse hauler, Mr. Bay reviewed his perspective of some of the pros and cons from his experience with other cities undertaking this same study for organized collection. Mr. Bay suggested that this topic came forward whenever there was an economic downturn or when City government budgets were tightened and citizens were looking for someone to blame. Mr. Bay opined that garbage trucks were not the cause of road wear and tear, but that other local truck traffic was also to blame, with the main culprit in MN being that of the extreme temperature variations. Mr. Bay further opined that as a vendor his company worked in a free market society and the competition was good for residents and provided them with a choice, rather than relying on involvement from local government. Mr. Bay addressed how recycling participation grew based on the ease of that service; how larger national vendors could outbid local companies; and how local haulers made connections and provided special services to individual residents. From his perspective, Mr. Bay suggested that the government stay out of the trash hauling business. Doug Carnival, St. Paul Attorney for National Solid Waste Management Association Mr. Carnival echoed comments of the previous speaker; opining that competition was the best way to go; noting that in the 18 -20 communities where this issue had come forward, citizens had clearly expressed their preference to choose their own waste hauler, and that the choice should continue to be citizen driven versus city Page 5 of 9