Fee Increases For Some Utilities Take Effect In Leander

LEANDER, TX — Increases to certain solid waste collection and disposal service fees took effect this week in Leander.

The changes implemented as of Monday will be reflected in utility bills issued on or after March 1, Leander officials wrote in an advisory. The billing changes are for the following services:

• Residential curbside refuse collection.
• Commercial refuse collection.
• Manufacturing/assembly plant special waste.
• Wastewater sludge.
• Service to city facilities.

See Ordinance 21-007-00 for a complete list of solid waste collection and disposal service fees. For other utilities information, visit leandertx.gov/utilities.

Rates and fees for residential curbside collection include one time per week service with one cart at $18.91, and $28.36 for two carts. A fee of $9.45 will be assessed for each additional cart.

On the municipal website, city officials answered a pair of frequently asked questions on the billing changes:

Why did certain fees change?

"In August 2020, Leander City Council approved a new franchise and five-year contract with the city’s current solid waste service provider Al Clawson Disposal. The agreements specify that certain temporary commercial services are no longer exclusive and that certain fees for residential and commercial collections within the city will increase when the new contract goes into effect Feb. 1, 2021. Previously, solid waste service fees had not changed since March 2014."

Are any discounts available?

"Customers who are disabled (e.g. SSI eligible, VA disability) or at least 65 years old can receive a 10 percent discount on residential water, wastewater, and solid waste services. Discounts only apply to metered water provided to a single living unit occupied by a disabled/senior person. Customers must provide valid proof of age or disability to City of Leander Utilities."

Residents with additional questions can call (512) 259-1142 or email leanderutilities@leandertx.gov.