SEATTLE (Recycling Monster): The City of San Jose has proposed hike in rates for garbage and recycling, a decision that is likely to make life more difficult for low-income families.
The proposal seeks 4% rise in rate for single-family service. This would add $2.05 to the monthly bill, making it $53.45 for the 32-gallon cart. The rate hike proposed for multi-family service is 2% or 45 cents on monthly bill. The change in cost covers collection and processing of garbage, recycling, yard trimmings and junk pickup.
The City had raised the single-family rates by 4% in July 2023. At that time, multi-family rates were hiked by 2%. The change in rates are proposed every year, after a thorough review of costs and revenue. Meantime, Jennie Loft- the spokesperson for the San Jose Environmental Services Department stated that the rate increases are required to cover 4.47% rise in costs.
The proposed rate increase by the city is likely to impact several residents who are already facing severe financial challenges. A few Councilmembers suggested that an efficient alternative such as a funding source must be found, so that residents are not directly affected. There are also suggestions that the City needs to provide assistance programs for residents or offer exemptions for low-income households.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
Union County to Launch New Pilot to Boost Recycling and Reduce Litter