Yellowknife (July 28/04) - A compromise has been found between the City of Yellowknife and contractors over access to the dump.

On a trial basis, contractors will be allowed access to the landfill to drop off demolition refuse if they call ahead and make arrangements with the landfill manager.

Concerns over landfill access were raised by Pete Simpson of Clark Builders and Wilf Pond of Pond Renovations on July 20 after the city restricted access for public safety reasons.

"They're afraid they'll run someone over. We just need to get into the first gate. We don't go to salvage," said Pond.

Without access to the landfill contractors said they could be put off schedule by four days.

"If we had a roof that needed to come off and we couldn't get into the landfill between Friday and Monday because it was shut down, we would have to sit on the garbage bin until Tuesday to dispose of it," said Pond

Clark Builders' Simpson agreed. "During demolition you need to get rid of the garbage," he said.

Contractors can call the city and ask for Bruce Underhay, manager for the landfill," Greg Kehoe, director of public works confirmed.

On a case-by-case basis, City Hall will now allow contractors to haul demolition waste.

"We agreed on a trial basis for two months," said Kehoe.

There are two entrances to the landfill. Residents have unlimited access to the recycling area and the oils and paints area. They don't have access to the salvage area, which is now closed to the public on Mondays and Fridays, he said.