Since 2010, Richland residents have enjoyed the convenience of curbside recycling. Over 6,300 customers subscribe to the co-mingled, every-other week collection service. Beginning in February, the fee for this service will increase ninety cents, from $5.70 to $6.60 a month.
Over the years, the costs of processing recycled materials climbed and the resale markets and international exports fell. City staff has been aware of these impacts and began informing residents of the increasing costs back in May of 2017. Residents were informed that a cost and market evaluation would be done in 2018, which could result in rate changes in 2019.
In 2018, as markets continued to slump, the city worked hard to absorb increasing costs. The cost and evaluation study showed that recycling processing costs had increased 185% since 2015.
The City’s Utility Advisory Committee and Staff recommended to City Council that an increase was necessary. During the January 2 council meeting, council voted in favor of increasing fees for residential and commercial recycling services. Residents and businesses who subscribe to curbside recycling will see a monthly increase starting in February. Residents with the standard 96-gallon blue container will see a ninety cent increase, from $5.70 to $6.60 a month, and businesses or those with a 300-gallon triple size gray container will see an increase of $2.20, from $13.90 to $16.10.
Commercial customers can view the recycling rate structure by visiting www.ci.richland.wa.us/solidwaste or by calling 942-7700.
Recycling drop boxes in Richland neighborhoods are still an option for those wanting to recycle, free of charge. To locate one near you, visit www.ci.richland.wa.us/recycle.