Select Board approves 12.5% trash and recycling rate increase for FY27 after debate over loopholes and program fixes

The Bellingham Select Board voted July 6 to raise trash and recycling rates 12.5% for fiscal year 2027, following months of staff analysis and debate over program corrections and billing loopholes.

Town staff and consultant Matthew Abrams presented two options: a larger 12.5% initial increase and a smaller 7.5% across‑the‑board alternative. Jeff, who introduced the study, said the higher option was designed to restore retained earnings and support needed improvements at the recycling center, summarizing the options as "a 12 and a half percent increase followed by 5 and 5" in later years. Consultant Matthew Abrams told the board that correcting multi‑bin billing errors would affect roughly 300 accounts and yield about $40,000 a year in additional revenue but would not close the projected FY27 shortfall on its own.

Board members pressed staff for a comprehensive program review to accompany any rate change. Vice Chair Don Rodriguez urged that the town "do a comprehensive study of what we're paying, what we're providing as a service," citing differences in what neighboring towns accept at their facilities and equity concerns for seniors and apartment owners. Several members raised the risk of unintended consequences, such as residents returning extra recycling bins, buying more fee bags, or illegal dumping, if the changes are not clearly communicated.

Staff said corrections include recalculating senior and lifeline discounts and adjusting multi‑bin charges, and stressed that billing and outreach changes will require lead time. The board emphasized public outreach and a clearer billing table showing what services are included in each rate so residents are not surprised by changes on their statements.

After discussion, Select Board member Don Rodriguez moved to adopt the 12.5% option for FY27; the motion was seconded and approved by roll call. Board members said the increase applies to FY27 only and that staff will continue a year‑long effort to examine program efficiencies, procurement options for the recycling contract, and communication to residents. Staff also noted that not taking action risks a structural deficit that could trigger state oversight.

The board directed staff to proceed with public outreach and to return with implementation details, billing tables, and additional analysis for future deliberation.

Ending: The board adopted the 12.5% increase and instructed staff to begin outreach and continue the comprehensive review; additional rate changes in future years will depend on the ongoing study and program outcomes.