The Town of Elk Point has officially approved a new garbage collection contract, opting to move forward with a private service provider rather than purchasing new equipment.

The decision comes after months of discussion around aging infrastructure, rising costs and the long-term sustainability of maintaining municipal equipment.

Contract chosen over new truck purchase

Council reviewed updated pricing during its April 13 meeting, including a quote of approximately $437,000 for contracted services.

Administration recommended entering into an agreement with E360 Environmental Solutions, noting the increasing costs and logistical challenges tied to owning and operating a garbage truck.

“We’ve been having these discussions for a while now,” one councillor said during the meeting. “We need to do something here.”

Council ultimately voted in favour of the contract option, which will see garbage collection continue in a similar format for residents, but handled externally.

Equipment concerns driving decision

A key factor in the decision was the cost and delay associated with purchasing a new garbage truck.

Council heard that:

• A ready-to-go truck previously priced around $395,000 is no longer available
• A newly built unit could cost closer to $470,000
• Delivery timelines could stretch to a year or more

At the same time, the Town’s existing equipment is aging, with concerns about reliability and ongoing maintenance costs.

“We’re limping a truck along,” one councillor noted, emphasizing the urgency behind the decision.

Regional approach considered but not feasible

Council also explored the possibility of partnering with neighbouring municipalities, including the Town of St. Paul and the County of St. Paul, to reduce costs through a shared or regional contract.

However, administration noted that:

• The County has already entered into its own contract
• St. Paul is still evaluating its options
• Timelines did not align for a joint agreement

“We could reach out, but I don’t think they’re at that stage,” council heard.

While the idea of regional collaboration remains appealing for long-term savings, council agreed it was not practical to delay the decision further.

Service expected to begin in June

The new contract is expected to begin as early as June 1, pending final agreement details.

Council briefly discussed shorter-term contract options to allow flexibility if regional opportunities arise in the future, but acknowledged that pricing could increase if not locked in.

“With the way inflation’s going, locking something in may be beneficial,” one councillor said.

Part of broader regional trend

The move reflects a broader shift among municipalities toward contracted waste services, particularly as equipment costs rise and staffing pressures increase.

Nearby jurisdictions, including the County of St. Paul, have already transitioned away from operating their own garbage trucks.