Politics & Government

Garbage Rate Increase Approved By Portland City Council

The rate increase will add about $2.55 on average to residents' monthly garbage bill, officials said.

PORTLAND, OR — In response to increased operating costs, the Portland City Council on Wednesday raised the rates for residential garbage, recycling, and composting service by about $2.55 per month.

The new rate will affect single-family homes and small multi-family residences up to four units. The change will take effect May 1.

The currently monthly charge for a standard 20-gallon roll cart is $27.15.

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According to the city's Bureau of Planning and Sustainability (BPS), "The rate increase is needed to cover higher costs for recycling, labor, fuel and garbage disposal."

Specifically, the increase will help offset the cost of hiring more employees at local recycling centers.

Find out what's happening in Portlandfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

The new hires, BPS officials said in a statement, are a response to newly implemented quality standards for recycled materials sold to international manufacturers.

The city will reportedly reevaluate garbage rates next Spring.

For more information on the city's garbage service and standards, visit PortlandOregon.gov.


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