Board adopts 2.59% rate increase for Douglas Disposal, effective July 1

The Douglas County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to adopt Resolution 2025R055, increasing Douglas Disposal Inc.’s residential and commercial collection service rates by 2.59% under the franchise agreement. The new rates take effect July 1, 2025.

Philip Rittger, director of Public Works, told the board the adjustment is an annual, formula-driven change established by a 2003 rate model and calculated from audited financial data from the prior year. He said the model uses allowable expenses and audited costs rather than projections.

Rittger called attention to two specifics: a household-service charge option for properties in Clear Creek Tahoe that allows curbside collection from a bear‑proof receptacle and a commercial “permanent drop-box” rate that Douglas Disposal has chosen to hold at last year’s level rather than apply a calculated increase.

County Manager Jennifer Davidson and Public Works staff said the board’s role is to review the audited data used in the calculation; if commissioners find discrepancies they may request additional review, but the franchise agreement allows the annual adjustment when the supporting data is in order.

Commissioners and staff also discussed recent county requirements at the transfer station aimed at reducing litter, including a tarping requirement for loads and quarterly roadside cleanups funded by Douglas Disposal; Public Works reported the amount of roadside debris collected has fallen since the tarp requirement began.

Commissioner Tolbert moved to adopt the resolution; Commissioner Rice seconded. The motion passed unanimously.