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- calendar_today October 12, 2026
Background: Renewed Vote on City-Organized Garbage Collection
Anoka, a suburb in the Twin Cities area, is gearing up for another vote on whether to switch to a city-organized garbage collection system. This ballot measure revisits a hotly debated topic from 2024, when a similar proposal was narrowly rejected by residents. The new vote is set for November 2026, prompting renewed discussions about affordability, personal freedom, and the role of city government in waste management.
History of Controversy and Previous Vote
The question of city-run garbage service has been a contentious one in Anoka for over a decade. In 2024, a slim majority—52%—of voters decided against city-organized trash collection, choosing instead to keep the current model where residents contract individually with any of the four licensed trash haulers in the city. That election cycle also saw legal action from area trash haulers and significant spending by groups opposed to the measure.
Key Arguments: Cost, Choice, and Municipal Role
Supporters of city-organized garbage collection, including members of the Anoka City Council, argue that a municipal program offers the potential for lower trash collection costs, more consistent pricing among residents, and fewer garbage trucks on neighborhood roads. Mayor Erik Skogquist points to the rising cost of living—including fuel, food, and taxes—as a motivator for change, noting that the city has negotiated a contract this year with Republic Services that could cut residents’ monthly trash bills to $14.40 for the largest-sized cart, with a maximum 4% annual increase.
Opponents, including local trash haulers, maintain that resident choice garbage systems give people the freedom to select, switch, and negotiate with companies for better rates. David Wiggins, with ACE Solid Waste, likened the city’s persistence to a child fixated on getting what they want, vowing continued resistance. The opposition, funded by haulers, spent over $24,000 against the 2024 proposal and promises more outreach this year.
Lawsuits and Legal Battles Over Garbage Collection
Legal challenges have accompanied each push for organized trash service in Anoka. Multiple haulers—ACE, Curbside Waste, and Walters Recycling and Refuse—filed suit against the city this year, alleging the city rushed contract negotiations and possibly violated antitrust laws by requiring sharing of confidential pricing information. A district court denied these companies’ request for a temporary restraining order; the haulers are now appealing. In the previous attempt, Anoka incurred over $35,500 in legal fees related to these lawsuits.
Impact on Residents and City Officials’ Perspectives
Council Member Brent Campbell, while seeing potential benefits in consolidated trash collection, opposed holding another referendum so soon, out of respect for the previous election’s results. He observes the debate is deeply philosophical—some voters prioritize saving money, while others emphasize freedom of choice.
Council Member Heather Rostad supports city-run garbage collection and expects personal savings: “The promise that people would find and negotiate better contracts did not bear out,” she said, describing current frustrations and suggesting lower costs and fewer trucks might sway voters this year.
The Road Ahead: Decision at the Ballot Box
With the referendum approaching, Anoka officials have increased their efforts to inform the public about the terms of the proposed organized trash service. The city already manages recycling pickup, but making the switch for garbage is seen as a significant step—and one with passionate voices on both sides. If approved, the new system with Republic Services would take effect, offering $14.40 monthly trash collection and a $120 optional yard waste fee. As the vote nears, the split among residents remains, reflecting broader debates seen in other Twin Cities suburbs over garbage collection and government service models.
Source: startribune.com.
