Bernalillo County proposes 5.5% solid waste fee increase for residential services

The Bernalillo County Commission held an administrative meeting on June 10, 2025, primarily focused on discussing a proposed increase in solid waste residential fees. The meeting began with an introduction by the chair, who emphasized the importance of the topic and welcomed representatives from Waste Management and the county's solid waste management team.

The discussion centered around the annual submission for rate increases, which are mandated for countywide solid waste collection services. The current contract with Waste Management, initiated on January 1, 2022, is in its third year of a four-year term, with the option for a four-year extension. The proposed fee increase is based on adjustments to the Consumer Price Index (CPI), specifically the Water, Sewer, and Trash CPI, which is calculated nationally.

The proposed increase is set at 5.5%, slightly above the CPI increase of 4.8%. This adjustment aims to address operational needs and ensure continued service quality. The chair outlined the financial implications for residents, noting that the increase would result in an additional $1.08 per month, totaling $12 annually for the average household.

Commissioner Barbara Buckle sought clarification on the fee structure, confirming the quarterly billing process and the annual cost increase. Commissioner Frank Buckner raised concerns regarding customer service issues with Waste Management, sharing personal experiences of difficulty in reaching their support system. He emphasized the need for improved customer service, especially in light of the proposed fee increases.

The meeting concluded with a call for a motion regarding the proposed fee increase, highlighting the commission's commitment to addressing both service quality and customer satisfaction. The commission plans to follow up on the discussed issues, particularly the customer service concerns raised by residents.