On April 27, Okotoks Town Council approved a six-month garbage collection pilot program that will regionalize the collection of garbage with neighbouring towns, Black Diamond and Turner Valley. The pilot is set to commence June 2 and end December 31.
This pilot program reflects recommendations in the Regional Solid Waste Management Plan (RSWMP) to combine resources to reduce regional collection costs, regionalize waste service collection, and assist neighbouring towns with servicing gaps. Black Diamond and Turner Valley will also compensate Okotoks for these services.
“Okotoks residents will not experience any additional costs or change of service when we implement this pilot program. The purpose of the pilot is to ensure that the services result in mutually desired benefits to residents of all participating communities,” said Okotoks Waste Manager Paul Lyons.
“If long-term solutions are determined to benefit all residents, a regional waste services framework will be brought forward for consideration by participating municipalities.”
Turner Valley approved participation at their April 20 Council meeting and the Town of Black Diamond approved participation in the pilot program at their April 15 Council meeting.
Continued updates will be published on the Town’s website at okotoks.ca.