Lloydminster council is raising questions about potential landfill project costs after estimates reached as high as $1,000 per square foot during recent discussions.
The figure came up during a review of long-term planning tied to the city’s landfill operations and future infrastructure needs.
“$1,000 a square foot… what are you building?” asked Coun. Jim Taylor.
Administration said the estimate reflects specialized infrastructure required for landfill operations.
“These are not typical buildings,” administration said, noting landfill facilities often require specialized design and materials.
Officials said the discussion is part of early planning work, with costs expected to evolve as designs are refined.
“This is still in the planning stages,” administration said.
“There is no defined construction timeline at this point as we are looking at long-term needs.”
Coun. Michele Charles Gustafson said long-term planning decisions often involve balancing cost and uncertainty.
“It’s a little bit of a risk and reward type of situation in my mind, which I think is a good thing,” Gustafson said.
The landfill plan is being developed with a long-term outlook, with infrastructure expected to serve the community for decades.
Council did not make a final decision on the project, with further details expected to come back in future reports.
Read more: Lloydminster council silent as administration raises review of free dump access
