Des Moines Council proposes $2.25 solid waste rate increase amid Metro Waste negotiations

The City of Des Moines is poised to implement a significant rate increase for solid waste services, marking the first adjustment in four years. During a recent budget discussion, city officials proposed a monthly increase of $2.25, raising the standard rate from $14.56 to $16.81 for a 64-gallon bin. This decision comes as the city prepares to renew its agreement with the Metro Waste Authority, which is set to expire on June 30, 2025.

City leaders emphasized the necessity of this increase due to rising operational costs and the need to maintain service quality. The last rate hike occurred in the fiscal year 2022, and officials noted that previous increases had been modest, with several years of no adjustments. The proposed increase aims to ensure that the city can continue to provide reliable waste management services while also addressing the financial implications of the upcoming agreement renewal.

In addition to the solid waste rate increase, discussions also touched on the city's sanitary sewer enterprise budget. Officials highlighted ongoing projects aimed at improving sewer infrastructure, including efforts to eliminate combined sewer overflows that have historically posed environmental and public health risks. The budget for the sanitary sewer fund is projected to increase, reflecting the city's commitment to maintaining and upgrading its sewer systems.

The council's discussions also included a review of the city's recycling program, with officials acknowledging the need for ongoing evaluation of recycling costs and revenues. As the city moves forward, leaders expressed a desire for more predictable agreements with the Metro Waste Authority to facilitate better financial planning and incremental rate adjustments in the future.

Overall, the proposed changes reflect the city's proactive approach to managing waste and sewer services, ensuring that residents receive quality service while addressing the financial realities of operating these essential programs. The council is expected to finalize the budget and rate adjustments in the coming weeks, with the new rates likely to take effect in the next fiscal year.