Clearwater Solid Waste Team Returns as Winners

Clearwater Solid Waste Team Returns as Winners

Published on May 13, 2026

On April 24 and 25, members of Clearwater's Solid Waste and Recycling team competed against other Florida cities in the annual SWANA Florida Road-E-O competition. The challenge is a premier competition that highlights solid waste professionals as they compete in specialized obstacle courses, inspections, safety exams, and maneuvering challenges.

• Tim Jones (Solid Waste Equipment Operator) defended his first-place win for the third consecutive year in Automated Side Loading
• Bradford Hardbarger (Solid Waste Equipment Operator) placed fifth in his first competition in the Automated Side Loading event
• Donald Holcomb (Solid Waste Equipment Operator) earned a first-place finish in Rear End Loading
• Josh Burdo (Solid Waste Equipment Operator) earned second place in the Roll-Off event
• Mike Campagna (Solid Waste Service Supervisor) is the main Solid Waste Representative who helps the drivers prepare and relay communication between the drivers and Road-E-O.

Within the Assisted Side Loading event, Jones and Hardbarger competed in a timed obstacle course and tested their skills in maneuvering, backing, and safety. Holcomb competed in the Rear End Loading event, showcasing his skills in alley backing, serpentine, and offset turns. Burdo competed in the Roll-Off event, navigating narrow obstacles and challenging real-world tasks with a focus on safety and precision. Campagna holds practices, sets up courses for the drivers, and communicates with the department on all road-e-o information.

Each year, the Solid Waste Association of North America hosts a competition for Solid Waste teams across Florida to compete in specialized driving and maneuvering challenges. Each event varies by truck type, driving skills, and tasks being completed. The goal is to create an environment that fosters competition and goodwill among field personnel, allows employees to showcase their skills, and provides an opportunity to refresh safety and professional skills.

The first-place winners of each event will compete in the SWANA International Road-E-O later this year.