Politics & Government

Why are Garbage and Recycling Rates Increasing for Marin Sanitary Service?

Even though rates are increasing, its the smallest increase in a decade.

 

Even though refuse and recycling rates have steadily increased over time, some San Rafael residents might appreciate that the increase the San Rafael Council approved at its Feb. 4 meeting is the lowest hike in a decade, according to San Rafael city officials.

Households with a 32-gallon trash cart will see a 55-cent increase in their monthly cost, which will be $29.56.

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According to the City of San Rafael website, the rates are set by a variety of factors, including the actual costs of staffing, materials, fuel costs, program expenses, and landfill “tipping” fees. 

Marin Sanitary Service requested the 1.89 percent increase and several Marin jurisdictions, including San Rafael, hired HF&H Consultants, based out of Walnut Creek, to review the request. 

Find out what's happening in San Rafaelwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

With the increase, the San Rafael will receive $443,600 each year for street paving and resurfacing. See the San Rafael staff report on the increase attached at the right.  

The council also unanimously approved hiring a consultant (for up to $50,592) for all MSS jurisdictions to investigate alternative rate structures. The consultant will analyze stabilizing rate increases from year to year while encouraging increased recycling, green waste composting and other forms of waste reduction.

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