Board approves 9% Recology rate increase, six-year extension and service upgrades

The Marin County Board of Supervisors approved a negotiated franchise agreement amendment with Recology Sonoma Marin that will raise residential solid-waste rates by 9% starting April 1, 2026, and extend the franchise for six years to June 30, 2035.

Julie Bryant, program manager for the county's Waste Management Division, explained that Recology had requested a detailed rate review with larger increases (12.2% baseline and up to 21.8% including trucks), but county staff negotiated a package that reduces the immediate increase, requires two new collection vehicles for the county franchise area, and adds expanded organics services (commercial bin service, twice-annual community compost giveaways, and an additional compost cart for all residents) at no additional charge to ratepayers. The negotiated package replaces the previous four-year detailed rate review procedure with an annual adjustment tied to a published refuse-rate index plus an additional 1% to stabilize future adjustments; Recology may request up to two extraordinary adjustments for unforeseen costs before 2029.

County consultant R3's analysis, cited by staff, concluded the new methodology and negotiated outcomes will produce lower rates over time for the expanded services compared with Recology's original request. Recology's senior general manager, Logan Harvey, told the board the company has already placed replacement vehicles into service for county routes and will continue to invest in equipment.

Public comment included support from Recology leadership, which emphasized new trucks and added compost services for West Marin. After deliberation, the board approved the amendment and rate adjustment by voice vote; a motion was made by Supervisor Rodoni and seconded by Supervisor Sackett.

Next steps: the 9% adjustment will take effect April 1, 2026, and staff will implement contract changes and the new rate-adjustment process.