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Washington County garbage rate increase

Garbage collection bills will go up a little (2.3%) as of July 1 for most residential and commercial can/cart collection service. Commercial container collection will rise by 8.3%.

All garbage haulers in the Metro area are subject to government control of their rates and other activities. In Washington County, the Board of County Commissioners (BCC) sets rates, with advice from the Solid Waste Advisory Committee, an appointed group representing citizens and haulers. The Committee recommended the rate adjustment at their June 12 meeting. The BCC approved the change at their June 24 meeting, and it took effect on July 1.

Collection rates are uniform across the county, with all similar customers paying the same rate for the same level of service. For example, all urban residential customers who subscribe to 32-gallon garbage and recycling collection service pay the same rate of $22.44, regardless of which collection company provides the service. The rates provide revenue that covers allowable collection costs plus a profit margin for the haulers.

The increase was approved to allow a higher profit margin for the companies. In Cedar Mill, Walker Garbage serves most households. If you pay bills through a payment service or your bank, be sure to make an adjustment for the new rates when you get your next bill.

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