Automated Collection Comes to Council Bluffs, Iowa

Council Bluffs, Iowa, is preparing for changes in its trash and recycling collection services, set to take effect next month. Waste Connections, the current vendor, will remain involved as the city implements upgrades to move towards automated collection. The city expects this transition to improve efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, and minimize wear on the roads.

The adoption of automated trucks allows drivers to make up to 60% more stops per hour. The shift to automated collection enhances worker safety by reducing the number of individuals required to physically handle the containers.

To facilitate the transition, the city has already provided nearly 40,000 new trash and recycling carts to residents. Waste Connections is also investing in a new fleet of trucks to support the automated services. Each household will receive one 96-gallon capacity trash cart and one recycling cart.

Residents will be able to opt for a smaller 48-gallon cart if desired. A Council Bluffs resident and homeowner, Mary Chambers, appreciates having the option. “We don’t really have that much trash,” she said. “I don’t want to hold my trash over until I fill up a 96-gallon cart.”

The move towards automated collection aligns with the industry standard. Other cities like Omaha have already made similar transitions. The benefits of the program are significant, with Tony Fiala, Council Bluffs solid waste superintendent, noting that it will lead to a more efficient waste management system. “​​It’s a cleaner look on the streets [and] reduces blown litter,” he added.

In terms of recycling, the program allows for co-mingled collection, enabling the mixing of various plastics, cardboard, tin, and aluminum cans. However, glass is excluded from the program due to safety concerns for workers.

Glass can still be recycled at the drop-off containers located around the town and at the Council Bluffs Recycling Center. 

Under the new system, garbage will be collected weekly, and the new carts can accommodate both household garbage and yard waste. All waste collected will be directed to the landfill.

The Council Bluffs solid waste superintendent emphasizes that the transition is expected to be seamless due to the decision to retain Waste Connections as the contractor for the new automated collection services. The company is familiar with the city and has extensive knowledge of the routes.

The Council Bluffs City Council approved a monthly rate increase of $1 for solid waste collection that goes into effect in July.