UPDATE: A coalition of Dallas residents is urgently advocating for the city to outsource trash collection to private operators, a move they believe could save the city money and enhance sanitation services for its residents. The push comes as the city considers eliminating alley trash pickup, a service that benefits nearly 95,000 households.
Recent discussions with Dallas City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert revealed that outsourcing is among the options being considered. The coalition, known as the Keep Alley Trash Neighborhood Coalition, argues that privatization could alleviate significant budgetary pressures and improve service quality.
The current proposal to discontinue alley pickup would force residents to navigate narrow streets and haul bins to the curb, impacting vulnerable populations like seniors and individuals with disabilities. The coalition insists that removing this service is not the solution to existing infrastructure issues but rather a misstep that could lead to further inequity.
In North Texas, numerous municipalities including Fort Worth and Richardson have successfully outsourced waste management. A striking example is Toledo, Ohio, which saved $6 million annually after switching to private collection, with service complaints dropping from hundreds to just a few each month.
The coalition emphasizes that companies like Republic Services and Waste Management maintain OSHA injury rates significantly lower than the industry average, showcasing their commitment to safety and employee training. By partnering with specialized firms, Dallas could enhance safety and service without sacrificing its commitment to equitable access.
Additionally, outsourcing would shift direct employee costs and maintenance liabilities off the city’s books, addressing long-standing pension issues that have plagued the city. The coalition proposes a thorough, independent analysis of both in-house and outsourced collection methods, focusing on cost comparisons, safety data, and the impact on vulnerable communities.
James Collet and Jeff Helfrich, leaders of the coalition, are pushing for an open bidding process for residential trash collection. They argue that if the city can provide competitive bids, it should participate; otherwise, it must consider the advantages of third-party providers.
As the city weighs its options, the coalition continues to engage with officials to ensure that alley service remains intact while exploring innovative solutions to improve efficiency and accountability. Residents are encouraged to voice their support for preserving essential services that enhance community well-being.
WHAT’S NEXT: The city is expected to make a decision soon, with public feedback playing a crucial role in shaping the future of trash collection in Dallas. The coalition remains hopeful that an outsourcing model will emerge as the preferred solution, ensuring safety and accessibility for all residents.
Dallas stands at a crossroads, with the potential to embrace a more efficient and equitable waste management system. The community’s voice will be vital in this decision-making process as they advocate for a system that works for everyone.
