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Council adopts 3.6% Athens refuse rate increase for FY 2025–26
Summary
Following the methodology ratified under Prop 218, the council adopted an annual refuse rate increase of 3.6% for Athens Services to take effect July 1; staff said the formula and weighting are set in the current contract.
The council approved the annual refuse‑rate adjustment required under the city’s Athens Services agreement, adopting a contract‑prescribed increase of 3.6% for fiscal year 2025–26.
Why it matters: The Athens Services contract ties annual rate adjustments to a weighted index reflecting labor, fuel, equipment, disposal and other costs; for 2025–26 staff reported a 2.6% indices change plus the contract’s 1% fixed adjustment, yielding 3.6% across residential, multifamily and commercial categories.
Details: For a typical single‑family residence the monthly rate will rise to $30.77 (annualized to $357.36). Staff said Redondo Beach’s unlimited bulky‑item pickup, recycling and organics collection are reflected in the city’s current service level and were included in the comparative analysis with neighboring cities.
Process and discussion: City staff and Athens representatives presented the calculation steps and comparison data. Several council members asked about the contract’s weighting method (set in the first contract amendment and adjusted algorithmically each year), whether Athens’ detailed cost data is available, and alternatives to secure longer‑term cost relief (for example, conducting a Proposition 218 ballot process to supplement assessments). Staff said the currently adopted methodology was ratified in 2024 and that a supplemental Prop 218 process to increase assessments would require consultant work and an affirmative vote of property owners.
Vote and implementation: The council voted unanimously to adopt the resolution authorizing Athens’ 3.6% rate increase and ordered annual charges for collection to be placed on the Los Angeles County tax roll for FY 2025–26. Staff said Athens’ notice letter and the city’s public hearing notice were mailed and posted as required.
Who spoke: Andrea Dallaps (management analyst) presented the staff report. Council members asked follow‑up questions; Athens’ pro forma and weighting explanation were discussed by the city manager and consultant present at the hearing.
What happens next: The new rates take effect July 1, 2025. Staff also told the council the city will continue evaluating comparative contracts, and council members asked staff to request more detailed pro forma cost data from Athens if a future contract amendment is negotiated.
