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San Mateo council adopts 2026 solid waste rate increases after Prop 218 protest hearing
Summary
After a Prop 218 protest hearing, the council adopted 2026 solid waste collection rates to cover a $1.17 million shortfall in the city’s solid‑waste revenue requirement; mailed notices went to 31,509 property owners and 29 valid protests were received, so a majority protest was not found and the measure passed 5‑0.
The San Mateo City Council on March 16 adopted updated residential solid‑waste rates for the 2026 rate year following a Proposition 218 protest hearing and a staff recommendation to bring rates closer to cost‑of‑service.
Jack Johnson, the city’s waste management supervisor, explained the 2026 revenue requirement of $35.6 million and a shortfall of roughly $1.17 million compared with revenue at current rates. Consultants from HF&H (Rick Simonson and Gabe Sasser) said the proposed residential increases range from about $4.16 to $6.50 per month depending on subscription size, and that commercial rates were not proposed to change because they already meet cost of service.
Deputy city clerk tabulated mailed notices and written protests: the city mailed 31,509 Prop 218 notices to property owners on the tax roll; a majority protest would require more than half that number (15,755). The clerk reported 29 valid written protests as of the close of public comment, well short of a majority. With that determination, the council voted 5‑0 to adopt the proposed 2026 rates.
City staff and councilmembers discussed outreach and mitigation steps for residents concerned about affordability. Staff noted educational bill inserts and outreach to encourage residents to request a review of bin size with Recology, and councilmembers asked staff to explore hardship assistance options using general fund or housing funds (subject to legal constraints) and to examine other municipal programs that use means testing for assistance.
Recology and city consultants said cost increases are driven by higher collection and disposal costs, increased tipping fees set by regional agencies, and an increase in city fees (including investments in street‑sweeping equipment); the consultants also noted temporary deferrals from 2025 that carry into the 2026 revenue requirement.
Next steps: the adopted rates will be implemented for the 2026 rate year and staff will continue customer outreach on options to reduce bills and explore potential targeted assistance programs.
