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Loomis council directs staff to pursue regional solid‑waste JPA to prepare for upcoming contract renewals
Summary
After a consultant presentation and public input, Loomis council voted to direct staff to pursue formation of a three-member joint powers authority (JPA) with Auburn and Colfax to evaluate combined franchise negotiations, Prop 218 compliance and CalRecycle reporting as current hauler contracts approach expiration.
The Loomis Town Council on Feb. 14 voted to direct staff to pursue drafting a joint powers authority (JPA) with nearby Auburn and Colfax to coordinate solid‑waste services and contract negotiations. The discussion followed a feasibility presentation by solid‑waste consultant R3 Consulting and public comment from residents and regional officials.
Scott Hannan of R3 Consulting told the council JPAs “are actually very common” in the Bay Area and argued a multi‑jurisdiction approach could give the towns more negotiating leverage and centralize regulatory reporting, including requirements from CalRecycle and Proposition 218. He said Loomis and Auburn’s franchise agreements with Recology expire in early 2024, making the timing critical for a coordinated approach. “As you get a bigger economy of scale you become more attractive and have more negotiating power,” Hannan said.
Wes (the town manager) told the council staff’s recommendation was to pursue formation of a JPA so the three managers could develop a joint powers agreement if all jurisdictions agree. Eric Otto, program manager for the Western Placer Waste Management Authority, urged the council to monitor options and offered the authority as a resource.
Public commenters raised both support and concerns. Some residents warned that Loomis’ current low rates and specific services — including senior‑can sizes and local spring cleanup days — should not be lost in a larger regional arrangement. Others, including a board member of the Rutherford Canyon HOA, voiced concern about potential rate increases tied to electrification or equipment-cost pass‑throughs. “The rates will not remain low like they currently are, whether or not we form the JPA or not,” R3 noted while describing long‑term capital needs such as electric collection vehicles.
Councilmembers discussed timing and the need to involve two absent councilmembers in the process; but a majority voted to give staff direction to proceed with JPA development and coordination with Auburn and Colfax. Councilmember Ring moved to approve staff’s recommendation and the motion passed on roll call with those present voting yes.
Next steps: staff will continue outreach with the other two jurisdictions, bring back a draft JPA agreement and options for board composition and voting, and return to council for formal review before any binding action.
