(VANCOUVER, Wash.) — The Vancouver City Council approved new solid waste and recycling rate increases for 2027. The new increases were approved during the November 2 meeting.
Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle introduced the second reading and public hearing of the ordinance relating to rate setting for collection of solid waste, recyclable materials, and organics, and amending certain sections of VMC 6.12 to increase or adjust 2027 rates and charges consistent with approved utility, user taxes, and rates, and in accordance with current contracts providing for savings, and effective date.
Environmental Services Manager Will Elder and Solid Waste Supervisor Liz Erickson provided the staff summary report to the council.
Photo Credit: CVTV
“Our main goals are to assure a high-quality service for all Vancouver customers with economical garbage and recycling services. We engage the community in reducing volumes and the toxicity of materials going to the landfill. We aim to conserve resources and protect public health and the environment.”
“Our program delivers on these goals that are supported by rates, by providing assistance to residents, businesses and neighborhoods through inclusive education outreach programs and proactive planning, contract management and program development, monitoring and evaluation,” Erickson said.
Following the report, Councilor Diana Perez mentioned her concern about this rate increase alongside other rate and tax increases for Vancouver residents," Erickson said.
“I just want to make a comment of recent rate increases and tax increases for our community and just want to acknowledge that as I look at this, it's hard not to think about the other rates, the utility rate increase, the public sales tax increase, and now this and how that is going to translate to a household's bill or rent if that's going to go up. So, I just want to acknowledge that. I have a lot of concern for our residents and do not support increasing at this time,” Perez said.
Photo Credit: CVTV
During public testimony regarding this item, Kimberly Elbon strongly opposed the proposed garbage and recycling rate increases, questioning the effectiveness of recycling efforts, which she claimed often result in materials being shipped to landfills due to processing backlogs.
“Every single dollar added to our utility bills in the. Is a dollar taken away from local families who are already struggling under record inflation, trying to keep their children educated in a good school system and putting food on their tables,” Elbon said.
Ultimately, the 2027 Garbage, Recycling, and Yard Debris Collection Rates were approved.
To add to or correct any information in this report, please email me at rory.h@lead4earth.org.
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