Recology plans to raise its waste collection rates significantly, starting with an 18.2 percent increase in October 2023, citing higher costs and lower revenues. This follows a pattern of substantial refunds to ratepayers over the past few years due to overcharging, totaling nearly $144.5 million. After the new rates, residents' monthly fees would rise from $47 to $55.55. Recology currently charges 25% less than Oakland and San Jose despite the hikes, but the proposal has raised concerns about affordability and rate stability, warranting careful review by the Refuse Rate Board and public hearings.
A larger-than-usual increase is now needed to bring rates back up to a sustainable level, as stated in Recology's proposal.
Given the level of the proposed rate increase, we're looking at everything in Recology's rate application to see where we can find efficiencies.
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