A new survey is giving Wetaskiwin residents a chance to weigh in on a proposed shift from weekly to biweekly garbage collection. Launching Jan. 31, the survey allows the community to share opinions and concerns before a final decision is made in March.
Why consider a biweekly collection?
The proposed change is driven by two key factors: environmental sustainability and cost efficiency. By reducing collection frequency, the city aims to cut costs while encouraging better waste diversion habits.
“When garbage collection moves to a biweekly schedule, people tend to be more mindful about what they’re throwing away,” says Babatunde Maraiyesa, environmental services supervisor for the City of Wetaskiwin. “The shift is aimed at encouraging and increasing recycling and composting, ultimately reducing the amount of waste sent to landfills.”
The survey goes live Jan. 31, with a deadline to respond by Feb. 28 at noon. It includes two multiple-choice questions and two open-ended questions about the potential change.
What happens next?
Once the survey closes, responses will be compiled and presented at a March 10 council meeting, where a decision will be made based on community feedback.
Will this change the rules on waste collection?
If the city adopts a biweekly garbage pickup, the same rules will apply — all waste must fit inside the designated garbage bin with the lid closed. While some residents may be concerned about waste piling up, officials emphasize that better sorting—by recycling at the recycling centre and placing organics in the appropriate bins—will help manage waste levels.
To ensure all residents can participate beyond the online survey, two in-person pop-up events will be held:
- Feb. 9, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Co-op Place, 4519 50 Ave.
- Feb. 20 at Manluk Centre, 4514 50 Ave.
- Morning session: 7:30 to 10:30 a.m.
- Afternoon session: 3:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Paper copies of the survey will be available at these events for those without online access.
“We want to hear what the community thinks,” Maraiyesa says. “Your feedback will help shape the future of waste management in Wetaskiwin.”
Have your say on the proposed biweekly garbage collection by completing the survey before Feb. 28.
Find the online survey at www.whatifwetaskiwin.ca/biweeklywaste.