Hamilton Ontario garbage rat

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Some politicians want more research on garbage issue

Print This ArticleBy Kevin Werner
News Staff
(Jun 17, 2005)

A few politicians believe the city is rushing into establishing a new waste collections contract at the expense of taxpayers.

"I have concerns with the process," said Hamilton councillor Chad Collins.

Hamilton councillor Tom Jackson asked his colleagues to discuss the issue behind closed doors at this week's council meeting.

He also expressed reservations about why the city would select a relatively new waste company over what had been a reliable company currently providing what everyone believed was good waste collection service.

"There are issues I want to discuss," he said.

Politicians were expected to approve a new $44 million, 5-year contract with Pickering-based National Waste Services Inc. at their June 15 council meeting.

National Waste Services was created about four years ago.

It will cost the city an extra $5 million in 2006, when the contract begins April 1, and $7 million in 2007 to collect and process curbside waste.

It will mean a 2.44 per cent, or $54 per household tax increase next year, and another 1.27 per cent household tax hike in 2007.

J.W. Sheldrick, which is the current contract holder to collect waste in Glanbrook, Stoney Creek and Hamilton Mountain, said this week company officials were upset at how the city conduct its tendering process. Company officials say they can save the city the extra $7 million per year.

Sheldrick did not meeting the technical requirements for the contract, city staff said.

Stoney Creek councillor Phil Bruckler said Sheldrick has not given any indication to the city if it will take legal action.

Mr. Bruckler, who is confident councillors will approve the contract, said politicians have to rely on the advice of city staff when making decisions about contracts.

National Waste Services was the lowest of the six bidders. It already has contracts with the city of Toronto, York Region, and Kawartha Lakes.

If council approves the contract, Beth Goodger, general manager of waste management, said National Waste Services will relocate to the city.

Some councillors also expressed concerns about possible start up problems with a new company taking over from the previous operator.

Politicians said there could be added costs to the city, and frustration for residents if the new operator has problems with the routes.