City Council Committee of the Whole 02-15-23

The City of Medford's City Council Committee of the Whole convened on February 15, 2023, to discuss the draft Request for Proposals (RFP) for a new waste removal contract. The current contract with Waste Management is expiring, and the city is seeking proposals for comprehensive solid waste, recycling, and composting services. Key topics included transitioning from weekly to bi-weekly trash pickup paired with curbside composting, expanding yard waste collection, and implementing a preferred hauler program to improve efficiency and reduce costs. The committee emphasized the importance of competitive bidding, contract length considerations (favoring 7-10 years with extension options), and robust community education to facilitate the transition. Budget concerns were raised, noting the significant cost of waste services within the DPW budget and the need to balance service improvements with fiscal responsibility. Public feedback and task force contributions were acknowledged as vital to shaping the RFP and future contract. The meeting concluded with a motion to keep the paper in committee for further review.