San Mateo’s waste collection rates are increasing by about $4 to $6 each month for property owners due to heightened operating costs change and previously deferred rate increases.
Last year, the City Council deferred over $330,000 in increased costs, however, according to a staff report, that decision “lowered rates in 2025 but must be accounted for this year.”
One public member voiced concern on the impact of the increase on low-income households.
However, Waste Management Supervisor Jack Johnson mentioned that due to state law, the rate increase cannot be subsidized for low-income households.
The city could decide to help subsidize it from its own general fund, but especially with it facing a $14 million deficit this year, the council supported keeping the increases as is.
“I do appreciate that we do want to, of course, make sure that the city is not necessarily trying to find money through the general fund to provide for this service,” Mayor Adam Loraine said.
According to the staff report, Recology’s collection costs increased by about 4% between 2025 and 2026. The monthly rates will likely increase anywhere from $4.16 to $6.50 depending on the size of the cart.
“If we were not to increase the rates, the city would have to come up with about $1.17 million. This is a direct cost for services … and those are just direct increases from not only the hauler but the processor,” City Manager Alex Khojikian said.
Due to Proposition 218, another hearing will be held in March. If a majority of property owners do not object to the changes, the rates will be increased. The City Council unanimously showed support for the increases.
(650) 344-5200 ext. 102
Daily Journal staff
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Thomas Morgan said:
cube_corner said:
cube_corner said:
Thanks for this silly letter! And thank goodness for Trump.
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