Airdrie City Council voted four to three this afternoon to introduce an automated black cart garbage collection program, marking what the City describes as a significant step toward modernizing waste management services.
The black carts are set to roll out citywide in 2026.
According to the City of Airdrie, the new program will provide each household with a standardized 120-litre black cart. This initiative is intended to streamline waste collection while reducing issues with pests and litter.
The Council’s decision also supports the City’s broader environmental goals, which are focused on composting and recycling efforts.
"Although I did not support this motion, the introduction of black carts aligns with the City's commitment to providing efficient waste services," said Mayor Peter Brown. "This decision reflects Council's focus on creating an informed and engaged community. With over 2,000 residents participating in the recent survey, Council is confident that this change will hopefully lead to a cleaner, more sustainable city for everyone."
Residents can expect weekly garbage collection with the new black carts designed to enhance curbside aesthetics and improve neighbourhood cleanliness. The City also notes that automated carts are expected to reduce worker injuries by eliminating the need for fully manual garbage collection.
The city added that it will provide more information, including a timeline and detailed instructions, on the black cart rollout in the coming months.
Costs and background
Council documents noted that, in April, a Request for Information (RFI) was issued to gather updated pricing for an automated garbage collection program. Based on 2024 estimates, switching from manual to automated collection would result in a yearly increase of $8 to $22 per household ($0.62 - $1.73 per billing cycle). This cost would cover cart maintenance, program growth, and repayment of the waste management reserve for capital cart investments.
"The cost to implement the automated garbage program will be captured as part of the City’s annual budget process for 2026," council documents explained.
The only line item regarding the black cart garbage program in the 2025 budget is for education and advertising. Deliberation on the 2025 budget will begin next week.
Residents feedback
A black cart survey was conducted in 2023, followed by more resident engagement this year. Using the Involve Airdrie platform, 2,043 responses were collected, with 75 per cent of respondents indicating interest in the program despite a one—to two-dollar increase per billing cycle.
Survey participants provided feedback on various service levels, with many supporting weekly collections, the excess waste tag program, and the medical and diaper exemptions. Fewer respondents favoured a standardized cart size for all households.
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