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Menlo Park council OKs Prop 218 notification to seek 5-year solid-waste rate increases
Summary
Council authorized mailing notices and initiating Proposition 218 procedures for proposed five-year solid-waste rate increases, including a recommended 6% annual increase for most single-family bundled service beginning July 1, 2026; the public hearing is set for May 12.
Menlo Park city staff on March 10 asked the council to authorize the start of a Proposition 218 notice process to seek maximum solid-waste rate increases for the next five fiscal years. Public Works Director Azalea Mitch and consultant Garth Schultz said without adjustments the solid-waste enterprise would face growing annual shortfalls that could reach about $600,000 by 2027 and escalate through 2030.
The rate study presented by the consultant recommended annual adjustments tied to projected costs: a proposed 6% annual increase for single-family bundled residential service effective July 1, 2026 and each subsequent year in the five-year plan; multifamily and commercial increases would vary by service size and frequency (many categories would see modest increases while accounts with large containers (2 cubic yards+) were proposed to remain flat). Consultant Garth Schultz said roughly 48% of rate revenues fund Recology collection operations, 37% fund post-collection processing and marketing at the regional Shoreway facility, and about 15% covers city fees and programs.
Council voted to authorize initiation of the Proposition 218 notification process and the mailing of required notices; the public hearing is scheduled for May 12. Staff explained that notices must be mailed at least 45 days before the hearing and that rate adoption would be blocked only if more than 50% plus one of parcels submit valid protests. The motion passed by roll call (Yes: Schmidt, Combs, Taylor, Mayor Nash; Vice Mayor Wise absent). If approved, the rates would take effect July 1 following the hearing.
The presentation said the city has reserves in its solid-waste and landfill-closure funds, and staff noted the proposal aims to stabilize rates and avoid future large shortfalls while complying with cost-of-service and proportionality principles under Proposition 218. Staff will mail notices following council direction and return on May 12 for the public hearing and final action.
