San Francisco Board proposes overhaul of 90-year-old refuse collection ordinance

San Francisco County is poised for significant changes in its waste management system following a recent government meeting where four proposed measures were discussed. These measures aim to amend the long-standing refuse collection and disposal ordinance, originally established in 1932, to enhance regulatory oversight and accountability.

The proposed changes come in response to a corruption crisis linked to the waste management company Recology, which has reportedly cost residents and businesses over $94 million. The new measures will shift the refuse rate-setting process from the Department of Public Works to the Controller's Office, establishing the Controller as the refuse rate administrator. This change is intended to improve transparency and ensure that rates reflect actual costs and service quality.

During the meeting, Supervisor Peskin emphasized the importance of these reforms, stating that they represent a culmination of efforts to address the issues that have plagued the city's waste management system for years. The proposed measures will not only regulate residential rates but also extend oversight to commercial rates, which have historically been unregulated.

The meeting also highlighted the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders, including the Mayor's Office and the Controller's Office, in drafting these measures. The proposed changes will allow for ongoing financial monitoring and independent audits, aiming to restore public confidence in the waste management system.

As the city prepares to forward these measures to the Board of Supervisors, the hope is that they will culminate in a single initiative on the ballot for the upcoming June election. This reform is seen as a critical step towards ensuring fair and effective waste management services for all San Francisco residents and businesses.