Instead of letting trash collection companies compete to serve customers, several Minnesota cities are negotiating contracts on behalf of their citizens. The measure, which reduces garbage truck traffic, has prompted backlash.

A debate is raging in several Minnesota cities over organized trash collection. For the StarTribune, John Reinan writes, "Battles over organized trash collection, meaning that a city arranges for pickup by one designated hauler, have been fought in more than a dozen metro communities in recent years. Some, like Fridley and Roseville, backed down in the face of opposition. Others, like Bloomington and St. Anthony, went ahead. But no matter the outcome, it's rarely been a smooth process."
The rationale for organizing trash pickups is environmental as well as aesthetic. "Cities that have adopted organized collection say it's more sustainable. Fewer big trucks on the street means less fuel used, fewer emissions released and less wear and tear on roads. Noise and congestion are reduced, and streets are safer."
But opponents claim the practice limits their ability to hunt for deals among the competing collection companies. Some phrase their protests in the language of individual liberties, referencing a culture of public lawmaking gone overboard.
FULL STORY: Residents, cities scrap over who picks up garbage

Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

The 120 Year Old Tiny Home Villages That Sheltered San Francisco’s Earthquake Refugees
More than a century ago, San Francisco mobilized to house thousands of residents displaced by the 1906 earthquake. Could their strategy offer a model for the present?

HSR Reaches Key Settlement in Northern California City
The state’s high-speed rail authority reached an agreement with Millbrae, a key city on the train’s proposed route to San Francisco.

Washington State Legislature Passes Parking Reform Bill
A bill that would limit parking requirements for new developments is headed to the governor’s desk.

Missouri Law Would Ban Protections for Housing Voucher Users
A state law seeks to overturn source-of-income discrimination bans passed by several Missouri cities.
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