Kennewick City Council members addressed significant changes to waste management services during their recent meeting on October 7, 2025, focusing on a proposed rate increase and the introduction of new 96-gallon blue garbage carts. The council discussed the implications of these changes, which are expected to impact residents' bills significantly.

The proposed rate increase is projected to be around 54% over the next two years, meaning that residents currently paying $75 for garbage service could see their bills rise substantially by January 2027. This increase is partly attributed to the costs associated with the new blue carts, which are mandated by state legislation and will require additional capital investments in equipment and infrastructure.

Council members expressed concerns about the financial burden on residents, emphasizing that the costs of the new carts and related services would ultimately be passed on to customers. One council member highlighted that Waste Management has been operating at a loss of approximately $1.7 million annually due to the current free dump coupon program, which has been reduced from 12 to 6 coupons per household. Despite this reduction, the program is still not covering the company's losses, prompting discussions about further cuts to services.

The council also debated the lack of competitive bids for the waste management contract, noting that no other companies had expressed interest in providing services to Kennewick. This lack of competition raises questions about the sustainability of the current contract and the potential for future rate increases.

In response to community concerns, the council confirmed that residents could request smaller recycling bins if the 96-gallon carts were too large for their needs. This flexibility aims to accommodate different household sizes and waste management needs.

As the council moves forward with these changes, they are tasked with balancing the financial realities of waste management services with the needs and concerns of Kennewick residents. The implications of these decisions will be felt in households across the city, as residents prepare for increased costs and adjustments to their waste disposal services.