Burnet releases request for proposals for new waste management contract
The Burnet City Council chambers. Staff photo by Caden Senn
Burnet officials released a request for proposals (RFP) on Jan. 7 for a new solid waste and recycling contract for the city. Proposals from contractors are due on March 19, with new service set to begin on Nov. 1.
Burnet has contracted its waste management from Al Clawson Disposal, Inc. since 2016, meaning the service has been contracted for two five-year periods. The city’s contract with ACDI expires on Oct. 30.
Under city rules, an RFP must be filed at least every two contract periods to ensure the city gets the best service possible. The RFP process is common for government projects, which have strict rules regarding how public money is spent and how contractors are selected for prospective work.
“Each contract term has been for five year periods,” said City Manager David Vaughn. “And we need to go through the (request) process at least every other renewal to make sure we have the best quality of service available for the community.”
The city shared a list of prices for current waste management services in the area in the RFP, as selecting a new contractor could change prices.
As it stands, Burnet residents pay $19.64 for pickup of a 95-gallon trash can once per week and pickup of a 95-gallon recycling bin every two weeks. Senior rates, for residents ages 65 years and older, are currently $15.73 for the same service.
In preparation for the RFP process, the city received feedback from residents on what has been successful and what needed improvement based on the current waste management services.
As reported in one of Vaughn’s city manager messages, common themes in feedback included:
- More frequent recycling pickup; The RFP will request pricing and operational details for optional weekly recycling.
- Carts being left in unsafe locations, particularly in the street; The RFP will require carts to be returned in a stable position off the roadway, near curbs or driveways, without blocking traffic, mailboxes, or drainage.
- Faster response to missed pickups; The RFP will require contractors to correct verified missed pickups within 24 hours and notify the city and customers when delays occur.
For more information on current waste management services, visit the Burnet sanitation webpage.