Council for the Town of Carman mulling a pair of proposals related to garbage service in the community.

Mayor Bob Mitchell explained the R.M. of Thompson Council has indicated an interest in forming a 5 year agreement with Carman to accept the community's garbage at its newly upgraded landfill.

"I believe it's a Class 2 dump. They can now accept garbage from other municipalities, before they couldn't, so now they want us to bring our garbage there instead of going to SWAMP."

Mitchell admitted the R.M. of Thompson landfill is closer in proximity to Carman, meaning it would be cheaper for the town to haul its garbage there. However, he said more information is needed, such as an actual cost-comparison, before a decision can be made.

Meantime, a change could be coming to garbage, recycling and compost pick-up service in Carman. A private contractor has submitted an initial proposal to take over the job that is currently done in-house by town employees.

Mitchell noted however, there is one concern that Council has with this option.

"Right now we've got staff that do the garbage, recycling and compost but if something else happens they drop everything they're doing and they go and fix a water line break. If we get a snowfall they...clear the snow. So, if we reduced staff because of the garbage, recycling and compost (pick-up) then the thought is that we may not have sufficient staff to meet the need if we have a problem."

There is also some concern that a change would mean loss of flexibility in pick-up service.

Mitchell added that the company will elaborate on its initial proposal, including pricing, at an upcoming committee meeting.

If Council were to chose this service option, it would mean a switch to a bin system for each garbage, recycling and compost.