Upland residents question trash billing changes as council reviews July 1 implementation

The City of Upland's Public Works Committee convened on April 8, 2025, to address significant changes to the city's waste management billing system, which is set to take effect on July 1. The meeting featured public comments expressing concerns about the new billing structure and its potential financial impact on residents.

The session began with a resident, Sandy Brenneman, questioning the necessity of the meeting given the impending changes. She expressed confusion over how the new billing would be calculated, particularly for seniors and those with varying waste disposal needs. Brenneman emphasized her concern about the financial burden that could arise from the new system, stating that many residents, especially seniors, may struggle with the costs associated with larger trash bins that they do not require.

Following Brenneman, Mike Nunez voiced his frustrations regarding the lack of transparency in the bidding process for waste management services. He criticized the city for what he perceived as a predetermined outcome favoring a specific vendor, suggesting that this could lead to financial hardships for residents. Nunez highlighted the potential for serious consequences, such as liens on properties for unpaid bills, which could disproportionately affect vulnerable community members.

The committee members then engaged in a discussion about the financial implications of the new billing system. They clarified that the proposed changes would reduce the cost to residents from $2.09 to 90 cents per line item on the county tax roll, which they argued would ultimately benefit the community. However, concerns remained about how these changes would be communicated to residents and whether they would adequately address the diverse needs of the population.

The meeting concluded without a definitive resolution, but it underscored the need for ongoing dialogue between the city officials and the community to ensure that the new waste management system is equitable and transparent. The committee plans to continue addressing these concerns in future meetings, aiming to provide clarity and support for all residents affected by the changes.