The future of the curbside organics program and waste collection have become clearer in regards to how the programs will be funded in the upcoming years.

On Monday, the City’s Governance and Priorities Committee spent just under half an hour discussing a report with two options for funding.

The recommended option from city administration was passed unanimously which will see the implementation of a fixed monthly utility rate for curbside organics when the program comes into effect in January of 2023 and a variable rate for garbage beginning in 2024. That means you pay for the amount of garbage you generate, so not everyone will be paying the same.

The City still has some wrinkles to iron out including how the City will measure the amount of waste a household produces. Angela Gardiner, the City’s General Manager of Transportation and Utilities says the City will look at other cities to see what they’re doing.

Brendan Lemke, Director of Water and Waste Operations told council that bags aren’t off the table and the City in the past has delved into the idea of providing residents with different sized bins.

In addition, councillors and the mayor passed another motion by Councillor Hilary Gough. Her motion is asking administration to proceed with developing a waste utility affordability program focusing on a transitional approach with city officials reporting back by quarter three of 2022.

The organics program is expected to cost residents $6.73 a month while garbage fees will be collected through property taxes until 2024.

The Governance and Priorities Committee consists of all city councillors and the mayor, although the final stamp of approval will have to take place at the next regular council meeting which is scheduled for next Monday.