Columbia staff is not making recommendation on roll cart issue before council tonight

Supporters and opponents of roll carts are expected to pack city hall for Monday night’s Columbia city council meeting.

The council is scheduled to vote tonight on a bill to repeal the city’s ban on roll carts for solid waste and recycling. Fifth ward councilman Matt Pitzer’s proposal was first-read earlier this month. The Pitzer bill would enact the language submitted in the successful initiative petition. If council approves the Pitzer bill tonight, the August special election would no longer be required.

Councilman Pitzer and other supporters say roll carts should be considered as an option. Critics say it will cost $12-million to replace or retrofit Columbia’s fleet of trash trucks. Other critics include some Columbia seniors, who say roll carts are difficult for seniors and the disabled to push to the curb.

Columbia staff is not making a recommendation on the Pitzer bill. Tonight’s meeting begins at 7.