New landfill deal to save city $1M

Texarkana, Ark., City Hall is seen in December 2015.
Texarkana, Ark., City Hall is seen in December 2015.

A new landfill contract will save Texarkana, Ark., more than $1 million if the city Board of Directors approves it Monday.

During its regular meeting, the board will consider a set of measures authorizing the contract and accordingly updating city ordinances and agreements with local garbage haulers.

Paris, Texas-based Sanitation Solutions submitted the most cost-effective proposal, a staff analysis determined. The city Solid Waste Committee recommends approving the deal.

The company quoted a rate less than half of that proposed by Waste Management, which has the city's current landfill contract, set to expire April 30.

Three companies submitted proposals:

  •  Sanitation Solutions Inc.-$16 a ton for the duration of a five-year contract, inclusive of fuel surcharges
  •  Waste Management of Texas Inc.-Option one: $35.50 a ton for the duration of five-year contract, inclusive of fuel surcharges; option two: $33.50 a ton with a $1 per ton increase annually
  •  Waste Corporation of Arkansas LLC-$25.00 a ton with a 2% increase annually

"I understand this city has had a long relationship with Waste Management over the years, but my job first and foremost is to protect the city's interest. Based on that, we recommend the landfill contract be awarded to Sanitation Solutions, as the new rate will save the city approximately $1,070,271.74 over the life of the contract when compared to the new rates quoted from Waste Management," City Manager Kenny Haskin said in an email.

Staff first evaluated the proposals based on the requirements of the city's request for proposals and quoted rates, Haskin said. Then staff performed a cost-benefit analysis, taking into consideration the distance haulers would have to travel. Finally, staff performed a cost-saving analysis for the city based on all rates proposed.

Staff contacted several of the references provided in Sanitation Solutions' proposal, Haskin said. Every entity contacted was either satisfied or very satisfied with the company's services. When asked to rate the company on a scale of one to 10, customers gave ratings ranging from 8 to 10.

The agenda also includes a citizen communication time during which members of the public may address the board on any topic for up to five minutes each.

The meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. Monday at City Hall, 216 Walnut St.

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