The City of Saskatoon started accepting requests for smaller black carts on Jan. 8 as part of its new cost-based garbage plan. More than 3,500 requests for smaller carts rolled in over the first week. “We are excited by the amount of interest there has been in the cart size options just one week into a two-month window for swap requests,” said Brendan Lemke, the city’s director of water and waste operations, in a news release. He encouraged residents to apply using the online tool through their utility accounts to avoid call wait times. The city shifted from including garbage services on property taxes to a pay-for-service utility model, which begins this year. Until June, everyone will pay a fixed rate of about $9.92 per month for roll-out black cart service. The rates will change based on the size of cart after all swap-outs are completed city-wide.

Residents can now choose a black cart that suits their household requirements. Presently, everyone has the large size of 360 litres. There are now options of 240 litres (medium) and 120 litres (small). Monthly utility rates are about $3.73 for the small cart, $7.05 for the medium and $10.58 for the large size. Part of the thinking around the change is that a significant portion of household garbage is now going into the new green compost carts, which came to Saskatoon yards in spring, 2023. In theory, there will be less waste placed in the black carts. “Communities that use similar approaches have seen their waste diversion rates improve by five to 17 per cent, as residents increase their use of diversion programs and find new ways to reduce their general waste generation,” the city said. “Residents have shown a high interest in smaller black carts due to the ability to control costs, save space and having less garbage to dispose of.”

The first cart swap request window runs until March 1. The city will then swap carts from April through June, corresponding with collection schedules. Another intake for cart swap requests will take place in the fall, for those who miss the deadline or need more time to decide on size. Learn more about the black cart program and rates at saskatoon.ca/ blackcart.

To request a smaller cart, go to saskatoon.ca/utilityaccount and sign up or login to your account. Requests can also be made by calling a Corporate Revenue customer service representative at 306-975-2400.

-Joanne Paulson