RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) - Rancho Cordova is transitioning to a new residential solid waste collection and street sweeping service. At the Oct. 7 City Council meeting, Atlas Disposal provided updates on the implementation of the new contract, which will begin on Jan. 1, 2025 and run through Dec. 31, 2034.

Atlas Disposal’s presentation focused on several key components of the transition, including vehicle procurement, staffing and community outreach initiatives.

“We are committed to ensuring a seamless transition for the residents of Rancho Cordova,” said Atlas Disposal Chief Operating Officer Brian Waters.

According to Atlas Disposal, collection services in 2025 will maintain the same service days, carts and schedules to ensure minimal disruption for residents. The street sweeping schedule will also continue as usual throughout 2025. Starting Dec. 23, Atlas Disposal will accept requests from residents and begin scheduling appointments for bulky item pickups. All services will officially commence on a delayed holiday schedule beginning Jan. 2, 2025, following the New Year.

Atlas Disposal plans to deploy 13 new side-loaders and one rear-loader, with deliveries scheduled for early November. As well as four extra trucks on standby to ensure reliable service.

“We’re also pursuing electric vehicle options for future procurements,” said Waters. “Big Truck Rental has also provided rental trucks to mitigate any delays in vehicle deliveries.”

The transition will involve transferring the remaining inventory of waste carts from the current provider to Atlas Disposal at the beginning of 2025. New carts, compliant with Senate Bill 1383 regulations, have been ordered and are expected to arrive before the end of 2024 according to Atlas Disposal.

To support the new services, Atlas Disposal hired for several positions, focusing on retaining as many drivers as possible, hiring local residents for customer service roles, and expanding its accounting, dispatch, and sustainability departments.

To enhance customer service, Atlas Disposal launched a new app this month. Residents can set up Automatic Bill Pay, use “What goes where” tool, and access educational resources. By January 2025, users will be able to check service schedules, receive custom notifications and schedule bulky item pickups through the app.

The company is partnering with Soil Born Farms to conduct composting workshops and has scheduled three workshops for 2025. Additionally, Atlas Disposal plans to collaborate with the Rancho Cordova Food Locker for two food collection events in June and November 2025.

“You guys are coming along nicely. It’s great to see a Rancho Cordova homegrown garbage company stepping up,” said Councilmember Garret Gatewood. “I believe we need to ensure everyone is aware of the changes, not just through mail but also by using door hangers. Mail often gets lost and emails can be deleted but if you put something on someone's door, they can't say they didn't know this was happening.”

The City Council recognized the Cordova High Lancers football team for their 400th win. Head coach JP Dolliver thanked the council for their support, emphasizing the hard work of his players.

“That is an amazing accomplishment,” said Mayor David M. Sander, PhD. “What is even more important is what we are seeing from you guys this year. We are proud to be in support of you and looking forward to all the things you are going to continue to do for yourself, the school and the community.”

Lastly, the council discussed the upcoming Cyclodova event on Oct. 12, organized by Sacramento Area Bicycle Advocates and Bicycling Advocates Rancho Cordova. The event, which promotes community inclusion and environmental awareness, will transform Coloma Road into a car-free street festival from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.