San Diego lowers trash pickup fees following resident complaints; new pricing details available.

San Diego city officials have announced a reduction of approximately 10% in the proposed trash fee for single-family homes, a topic that is set to be debated by the City Council on an upcoming Monday. The revised proposal, unveiled on Wednesday, suggests a monthly fee of .59 for full-service customers, which is over less than the earlier announced rate of in February. City residents willing to opt for smaller 35-gallon trash bins can expect to pay .72 per month, down from the previously estimated .

Though the new fee structure aims to alleviate immediate concerns, it is projected to increase again in future years as the city plans to introduce additional services, such as bulky trash pickup. Instead of a steep rise to by July 2027, the fee will now increase to .42 during that timeframe.

This revised proposal comes in response to significant public backlash from single-family homeowners, many of whom have enjoyed cost-free trash pickup for decades due to the People’s Ordinance, established in 1919. Residents have expressed dissatisfaction with the new rates, which are nearly double the city’s 2022 estimates, and some have suggested considering the outsourcing of trash services to mitigate costs.

Despite the adjustments made in the proposed fees, city officials indicate that San Diego will still save an estimated million to million annually by moving away from subsidized trash collection. This shift is seen as essential for addressing the city’s projected 8 million deficit for the upcoming fiscal year starting July 1.

The proposed rates would result in San Diego having the highest monthly trash fees in Southern California, second only to Long Beach. For comparative context, monthly fees in Riverside are set at .32, while Los Angeles charges .32, and Pasadena has a rate of .61. These differences could motivate residents to voice their opinions as fees roll out.

San Diego’s residents can participate in a feedback process by submitting protest cards following the council’s discussions. Approximately 233,000 households will receive these cards starting on April 21. Should a majority of households return these cards, the proposed rates may not be implemented, as dictated by state law.

The recent changes in trash policy stem from Measure B, approved by local voters in 2022, which allows the city to charge for residential trash services for the first time. City officials argue that fees collected can enhance service quality, which includes elements such as weekly recycling pickups, free bulky item pickups twice a year, and the provision of new bins.

Moreover, the proposal has taken into account inflation, the costs associated with billing, and the need to upgrade aging infrastructure. Feedback from residents reflects a mixture of concerns, ranging from dissatisfaction over fee disparities to calls for more transparent service provisions. As the City Council prepares for deliberation, local officials will also assess subsidy options for low-income residents, as discussions continue regarding the cost and quality of waste management services in San Diego.

The council meeting is slated to commence at 2 p.m. at City Hall, with additional hearings scheduled for June to finalize the rates.