Port Coquitlam residents looking to replace a bear lock for their waste cart may be in for sticker shock.
The cost of replacing locks for 360-litre collection carts could increase to $110, which is more than double the previous $50 fee.
"This increase is due to the significant increase in costs associated with manufacturing the locks, due namely to the spike in steel pricing, which is related to current supply chain demand and commodity market impact," a staff report states.
As part of its bear management strategy, the city provides wildlife-resistant locks for 120-, 240- and 360-litre garbage and green carts, as well as a third security arm.
The first lock is free, but residents have to pay for a replacement for the larger 240- and 360-litre cart locks.
If approved by Port Coquitlam council, residents will have to pay the higher fee for a replacement cart lock beginning Jan. 1, 2023.
However, the price hike could have been worse, the staff report notes, detailing problems that occurred when an order was placed for more locks.
"Staff was informed that due to supply chain issues, costs have increased 300 per cent and the city would need to meet a mininum order threshold."
The city looked for a new supplier, resulting in a "significant increase to the cost of the cart locks."
Port Coquitlam council is reviewing its fees and charges bylaw at its committee of council today (Nov. 22).
To find out more about cart locks, you can email publicworks@portcoquitlam.ca or visit the bear lock page of the city's website.
