Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Solid Waste Rates topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Council adopts modest increases to solid waste and recycling rates; low‑income discount program authorized
Summary
Council approved updated residential solid waste and recycling rates and a $1 per ton increase to the commercial tonnage fee; the ordinance includes authority to implement a low‑income discount program for qualifying customers.
The Portland City Council adopted updated rates for franchised residential solid waste and recycling collection and increased the commercial tipping/tonnage fee by $1 per ton on June 18, 2025.
The ordinance, passed as an emergency measure, reflects a mean monthly increase of $1.84 across primary residential service levels. The commercial solid waste tonnage fee was raised from $16.60 to $17.60 per ton. Council documents show the adjustments are intended to cover rising system costs, franchise fee pass‑throughs and continue the city’s commitments to expanded diversion programs.
The ordinance also authorizes the city administrator to implement a low‑income discount program for eligible residential customers who receive franchised service. Bureau staff told the finance committee they will develop eligibility rules and an administrative plan; councilors encouraged staff to ensure outreach to older adults and households with limited cash flow who they said are most likely to be hurt by rate increases.
A representative from the Portland Haulers Association testified in support of the rate process and described the annual rate review as a collaborative process between the city, haulers and an independent rate consultant. Councilors noted regional dynamics — Metro’s role in solid waste policy and regional rate setting creates constraints on municipal discretion — and asked staff to pursue greater transparency in the Metro rate‑setting process.
The emergency ordinance passed with 11 yes votes and one no vote. Staff said the changes will become effective July 1, 2025, in line with Metro and franchise schedules.
