Kalispell City Council talks garbage collection plan

Kalispell City Council on Monday is set to discuss the details surrounding a master plan for its garbage collection service that reflects the city’s growth and expanding disposal needs in years to come. 

Since the spring of 2023, the Public Works department has been collaborating with a consultant on the development of a Solid Waste Master Plan. According to a memo released prior to the meeting, “the insights and feedback gained during the work session discussion will play an important role in shaping the subsequent phases of the master planning process.”

Council meets at City Hall, 201 First Ave. E., at 7 p.m. For more information on how to attend or participate, including remotely, visit: https://www.kalispell.com/agendacenter.

A period of public comment will be open after the presentation by city staff. 

Public Works Director Susie Turner will present waste disposal data outlining the current extent of alternative services, alley cleanup, spring cleanup, and the cost of continuing standard residential services. 

The presentation will also include the factors that go into creating the necessary 10-year forecast for a solid waste master plan, establish guidelines for future policies and strategies, and provide rate recommendations.

“We’ve never had an in-depth master plan,” Turner said. 

“We’re currently at a point where we need to add additional personnel and equipment to continue service in residential areas, so we need to get direction on that from Council,” she said.

Solid waste management is paid through property taxes. Turner will provide a current financial overview of the solid waste department. 

Council’s task is to determine what services to prioritize.  

“It’s an ongoing conversation,” Turner said.

The city provides garbage collection to about 530 commercial properties and to about 5,600 residential properties.

Reporter Carl Foster can be reached at 758-4407 or cfoster@dailyinterlake.com.