Highland Sanitation Wins Contract for Wanamingo’s Waste and Recycling Services

Highland Sanitation Wins Five-Year Waste and Recycling Contract in Wanamingo

Highland Sanitation, based in Vermillion, Minnesota, has been awarded a five-year residential and commercial solid waste and recycling contract by Wanamingo, Minnesota, effective January 1, 2025. The company takes over from Houston-based WM, becoming the exclusive waste and recycling hauler for the city. The contract was secured after a competitive proposal process, in which five companies participated. Highland Sanitation was selected primarily due to its most cost-effective proposal.

Service Transition and Price Changes

The transition process began on December 26, 2024, with Highland Sanitation distributing collection containers to residents. Full waste collection services commenced on January 6, 2025. While Highland Sanitation’s proposal offered a lower bid, the city of Wanamingo will see an increase in residential waste collection fees, which will rise from $15.75 to $18.61 per month. Additionally, the recycling rate will go up from $6.85 to $7.35 per month. The prices are based on the current tipping fee of $123 per ton, which will vary annually based on disposal costs at the Red Wing Solid Waste Campus. Despite the price hikes, the city officials emphasized that the decision was made with an eye on reducing overall costs for residents.

Recycling Guidelines and Accepted Materials

Recycling will be picked up weekly, with residents encouraged to recycle materials such as glass bottles, aluminum cans, plastic bottles, and cardboard. Items that are not accepted include plastic bags, foam materials, and dirty pizza boxes. While Highland Sanitation does not collect scrap metal as part of curbside recycling, residents can arrange for separate pickup of these materials.

Highland Sanitation’s Experience and Reach

Founded in 1950, Highland Sanitation currently operates more than 20 trucks and employs nearly 30 staff members. Serving more than 12,000 customers weekly, the company brings a wealth of experience in waste management and recycling services to Wanamingo. The new contract positions the company to further solidify its presence in the region and ensure the efficient management of waste and recycling for local residents.