Council advances $2 solid-waste fee increase to next meeting; staff cites inflation and diesel costs

Public Works presented a proposed $2 combined increase to the city's solid-waste charge — explained as a $1 increase to the city service fee and a $1 increase to the cart fee — that staff said would raise the current rate "from 1765 to 1965." Staff described the change as long overdue given inflation, higher diesel and parts costs, and increasing wage and insurance expenses.

Officials provided comparative context against peer cities and noted that raising the rate would generate additional annual revenue; one presentation slide estimated the increase would generate roughly $303,000, though staff also noted that catching up entirely with inflation would have required a larger increase. Council moved and seconded a motion to advance the proposal; a roll-call vote sent the item forward to be considered as a formal resolution at the next council meeting.