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Committee reviews rising leaf and yard‑waste costs; stormwater utility now responsible
Summary
Staff reported leaf and yard‑waste collection costs rose from about $50,000 in 2022 to roughly $65,000 in 2024 and that brush collection details will be brought to budget discussions; Committee was reminded that those costs are now part of the stormwater utility following last year’s referendum.
Committee members heard a staff briefing July 28 on the operations and rising costs of leaf and yard‑waste collection, and were reminded that those services are now part of the city’s stormwater utility budget.
What staff said: Ben explained leaf and yard‑waste collection is labor intensive, typically uses two vacuum trucks to collect curbside material, and that operating costs include staff time, fuel, and maintenance. He said the packet includes data for 2022–2024 showing increasing costs and cited a range from about $50,000 in 2022 to about $65,000 last year.
Stormwater utility and responsibility: Lisa, speaking during the discussion, reminded the committee that “with the successful stormwater referendum last year, Leaf collection, brush collection, those costs are now part of the stormwater utility budget,” and said items affecting the utility should be reviewed by the Water Resources Management/Stormwater Utility Commission before council or finance committee action.
Brush collection and next steps: Committee members requested brush‑collection cost breakdowns and hourly estimates; staff and Brad Hopwood confirmed brush collection is more year‑round and likely more expensive per hour, and said brush collection figures will be included in the August meeting materials and budget conversations.
What’s next: Staff will add brush collection as a line item for discussion during the August budget process and coordinate with the stormwater utility commission where appropriate.
