Jennifer Rose, Commissioner, Engineering & Environmental Services, spoke to the report which was a response to questions surrounding a recently awarded contract for downtown waste collection, to determine best levels of service. J. Rose noted a change in the recommendation, part (c), where they removed the language of "garbage and organics" for specificity. Furthermore, she noted a correction in the communication section of the report in regards to communication that was in fact received from the City of Cambridge in the engagement process, as well as Kitchener and Waterloo.
Responding to a question from the Committee, Cheryl Braan, Acting Commissioner, Corporate Services/Chief Financial Officer, explained that the service is not area-rated, and would expectedly be more expensive in rural areas.
In response to a question from the Committee, Jon Arsenault, Director, Waste Management, expanded on the accessibility considerations as it pertains to this project, acknowledging the uniqueness of each area and its needs.
Replying to a question from the Committee, J. Rose explained that conflicting correspondence was received from the Downtown Galt Business Association supporting bags for organics and separate correspondence from the City of Cambridge supporting carts. The majority were in favour of the carts option, due to cleanliness and storage considerations.
In reply to a question from the Committee, J. Rose indicated that enforcement issues, such as in the City of Cambridge, are contingent on what is expected of area municipality staff. By-law capacity at the Region could be increased to respond to any needs.
Responding to a question from the Committee, J. Rose explained the number of days for pickup is based on calculated waste accumulation. J. Arsenault added that if waste is already being picked up from the downtown core, it would end up in the landfill, thus materials should be diverted where it can be.
In response to a question from the Committee, J. Arsenault provided that contracts have had inequity where public space receptacles are collected, but that certain areas have done their own collection. The wording of the motion was changed, in section A(v), to include "All impacted municipalities" instead of "the cities of Waterloo, Cambridge and Kitchener and the Region of Waterloo."
Replying to a question from the Committee, J. Rose indicated changes to tax space would be a Council decision. C. Braan indicated the service level change that would affect the budget would be considered ahead of the 2026 budget process.