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Sequim staff report modest solid-waste rate rises; parks present 2025 festival survey results
Summary
Public Works Director Paul Busich reported small solid-waste rate increases driven by an 8.3% tipping-fee rise and a provider CPI component; Parks presented a festival survey showing mixed support for fireworks (38% opposed) and recommended improved event communications and accessibility.
Sequim's Public Works and Parks staff briefed the City Council on Jan. 26 about modest solid-waste rate increases and the results of the 2025 festival and event survey.
Public Works Director Paul Busich said the solid-waste contract and an interlocal agreement with Port Angeles underlie Sequim's rates. He explained the contractor-provided CPI factor was 6.32% and that Port Angeles tipping fees to Sequim will increase 8.3%, which together will translate into small monthly rate increases for residential customers. As an example, Busich said single-family weekly garbage pickup would rise from $66.17 per month to $68.04 per month under the model presented.
Parks and Events Assistant Manager Emma Jane Garcia presented a summary of the 2025 festival and event survey for information only. Garcia said the survey covered both city-produced and externally produced events and was distributed digitally (QR codes, newsletters and online links) and in public spaces; staff reported a robust number of thoughtful long-form responses. Discussion highlighted communication improvements for events and accessibility; Councilor Harmony Rudder noted fireworks remain popular with many residents but that 38% of respondents opposed including fireworks in the Independence Day celebration, citing wildfire risk, impacts to veterans with PTSD, pets and wildlife.
No council action was required on either informational item; staff said they will continue outreach, apply survey guidance to event planning, and coordinate next steps for solid-waste cost-of-service updates.
