Sioux Falls City Council, garbage haulers weigh whether COVID-19 curbside pickup rule should change

After nearly a year without a Sioux Falls ordinance requiring garbage cans to be stored in an "inconspicuous place" and not placed on the curb for pickup, city officials and garbage haulers are discussing whether to make a more permanent change.

Public Works Director Mark Cotter presented at Tuesday's informational city council meeting on the subject, after collecting feedback from local garbage haulers.

The discussion follows after an emergency ordinance, requested by local companies and put into place on April 7, 2020, removed the existing restriction and allowed haulers to request that customers bring their cans to the curb.

The underlying reason was an attempt to save time on routes to deal with staff shortages because of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The emergency ordinance was rescinded on March 16, 2021.

In his presentation, Cotter said haulers estimate 15-20% of residents were placing their cans curbside prior to the ordinance, and that 50-60% continue to do so despite its repeal.

Cotter said haulers claim benefits ranging from less time spent blocking roads to lower insurance premiums tied to reduced injuries with less walking up and down snow-covered driveways.

Councilor Rick Kiley said he's noticed in his own neighborhood that cans are remaining at the ends of driveways, and it's clear there needs to be some increased clarity on the rule.

But, he added, a safety issue for a garbage hauler is a safety issue for a homeowner as well — and if garbage haulers weren't planning on lowering prices for a reduced level of service, he'd be against any change.

Jesse Dewitt, with A-OK Sanitary, said saving time was the biggest gain from the change, and that while cost savings weren't directly passed onto the consumer, fuel prices had risen recently and they were able to avoid raising rates.

Several councilors said they'd like to hear feedback from residents, many of whom are used to and appreciate the extra service, and may have concerns about a change to the rule.

Councilor Greg Neitzert called it a "value-add" and admitted he felt strange about telling a company they were required to do it.

No official decisions were made, with Cotter thanking the council for "opening a dialogue" amongst the parties and saying any potential policy changes would involve further discussion.