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Commission adopts three‑year solid waste rates as master plan work continues
Summary
The Lawrence City Commission on Oct. 14 adopted a three‑year solid waste rate schedule (Resolution No. 7633) covering 2026–2028 and approved a 2026 residential 65‑gallon cart rate of $24.01 as the city advances a Solid Waste Master Plan.
The Lawrence City Commission on Oct. 14 adopted Resolution No. 7633, setting solid waste rates for 2026–2028 as staff advances a Solid Waste Master Plan and related operational changes.
City staff said the master plan — prepared with Burns & McDonnell — includes a waste‑characterization study, operational reviews and a financial analysis that informed the three‑year rate proposal. Mike Lawless, deputy director of Municipal Services & Operations, summarized the sampling work: crews collected 48 sample loads and sorted them into 41 material categories. Staff reported that roughly 40% of sampled trash weight was organic material, with paper and plastics as other major components; roughly 19% of material in trash samples could have been placed in the city’s recycling stream, according to the study team.
Staff emphasized recent investments — five replacement vehicles in 2025, expanded roll‑off and tank inventories, and alley rehabilitation work — and said the Phase 2 MSO campus building will improve vehicle uptime and mechanics’ working conditions. The city plans additional community engagement, including a residential survey and commercial focus groups, and a compost‑facility feasibility study is under way.
To address near‑term financial needs while smoothing future debt impacts, staff proposed a three‑year rate schedule: residential increases of roughly 5.5% annually; commercial and roll‑off changes that vary by size; and an estimated downtown increase near 9.5%. The standard 65‑gallon cart rate was listed as $24.01 for 2026. Staff said the multi‑year schedule gives more predictability for customers and the utility’s fund balance will be drawn down to smooth debt payments tied to the MSO campus.
Commissioners and staff discussed diversion strategies (including composting), partnerships with multifamily properties and with the university, and coordination with Douglas County for regional planning. The commission adopted the rate resolution by voice vote (4–0).
Staff will continue the master plan’s outreach and return with implementation details, including any program changes for bulky pickup, composting pilot options and the results of the fall contamination audit.
