Garbage rates increase in Redwood City

This rate increase was proposed to pay for the projected $27.6 million in cost to collect, process and dispose of the waste. If the city did not increase rates, there would be a $2.45 million shortfall that would only mean a bigger rate increase later, Adrian Lee, Publics Works Services superintendent said. 

“Ultimately, if we don’t raise these rates, it will cost us more later,” Councilmember Chris Sturken said. “We do what we have to do to make sure we’re making sure service is reliable and consistent.”

The city approved a $7 rate increase across the board last March for 2024.

The rate increases for 2025 were proposed to be $2 more for each cart size, but were lowered due to the city’s use of one-time rate stabilization funds to lighten the burden on residents. Councilmembers also noted the available Utilities Rate Assistance Program that gives discounts on costs for families who qualify based on income. 

“We recognize rate increases are challenging for some,” Lee said.

Acceptance to the program is first-come first-served, based on the household earning 50% or less than the area median income of San Mateo County. For a family of four, the household maximum income to qualify for URAP is $97,900 as of May 2024. 

Households that are approved for the program can earn $10 credit per month for a 20-gallon bin, or $20 per bill. Credits are also awarded for water and sewer rates. Interested families can apply on the city’s website by looking up its rate assistance program. 

Nearly 50 letters protesting the proposed rate increases were submitted to the city, and many asked if the increases could be relative to bin size to continue promoting recycling and decreased waste. However, Lee said the cost increases in providing the garbage collection service are fixed and not dependent on bin sizes.

The approved rates will go into effect Feb. 1.