Commissioner advances first reading to raise garbage fee $1 in 2026 and again in 2027

Commissioner Zimmerman moved on the council floor to increase the municipal garbage fee by $1 on July 1, 2026 and by an additional $1 on July 1, 2027, saying the increases are needed to offset a higher garbage contract and to preserve services such as leaf and brush pickup.

The motion was presented as a first reading; council members discussed timing and whether two readings could be completed in time for the July 1 start date. Council agreed there was sufficient time to complete the required two readings and scheduled a second reading at the next council meeting.

Zimmerman opened the discussion by noting the fire department's recent activity (18 runs) and warned residents about burning during windy conditions as part of his report. He tied the fee proposal to rising costs in the garbage contract and to maintaining the city's special collection services.

Councilors asked whether the $1 increase would fully cover anticipated costs; responses on the dais described the amount as "tight" but feasible. No vote on final adoption occurred; the measure will return for a second reading and a formal vote at the next council meeting.