Fraser council approves Priority Waste change-of-control amendment but warns on service expectations

The Fraser City Council approved a contract amendment allowing a change of control at Priority Waste, the company that provides residential waste hauling for the city.

City Attorney Denault explained the contract includes clauses requiring council approval for a transfer of control; counsel said the contract language limits the city’s ability to refuse a requested ownership change absent good cause. Council members discussed recent service complaints and stressed that approval should not be interpreted as tolerance for poor performance.

"If their services do not dramatically improve, the next time it comes out to bid—even if they're the lowest bidder—I'm going to vote no," Mayor Pro Tem O’Dell said, summarizing a sentiment echoed by others. Council member Shornack moved and the council approved the amendment to allow the company’s ownership changes to proceed under current contract terms.

City staff noted the contract runs through 2028; councilors asked staff to ensure timely planning for the next procurement cycle and to monitor service complaints closely.