Council proposes 18% increase in solid waste fees for residents and businesses

During the City Council Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs meeting held on June 12, 2025, significant discussions centered around proposed increases to solid waste fees for the upcoming fiscal year. The committee reviewed adjustments to the rates for residential, non-owner occupied, and commercial establishments, reflecting a broader trend of rising costs in the city's trash enterprise fund.

The proposed changes include an increase in the fee for owner-occupied residences from $21.86 to $25.79, while non-owner occupied properties would see their fee rise from $1.38 to $1.63. Commercial establishments would experience a more substantial increase, with fees jumping from $31.71 to $37.41. These adjustments represent an overall increase of 18% in the trash fees, a notable rise compared to the more modest increases of approximately 2.5% seen in previous years.

The rationale behind this increase is tied to the rising costs within the trash enterprise fund, which is projected to increase by $765,055. Currently, 77% of the fund's revenue is subsidized by the general fund, with the remaining 23% covered by ratepayers. The committee's approach aims to maintain this proportional balance, applying the 18% increase equally across both the subsidy funded by taxpayers and the rates paid by users.

Councilor Cohen moved to refer the new rates to the full council with a positive recommendation, indicating a consensus among committee members regarding the necessity of these adjustments. The final decision on the proposed rates will be made by the full council, with the subsidy component typically confirmed in December when the tax rate is set.

This meeting highlights the city's ongoing efforts to address rising operational costs while balancing the financial responsibilities between taxpayers and service users. As the council prepares for the upcoming vote, the implications of these fee increases will likely resonate with residents and businesses alike, prompting discussions about the sustainability of municipal services in the face of rising expenses.