CCMIN040709 - Laserfiche WebLink

anticipated that as more residents transition to 35-gallon bins, that rate will decrease to be in line with rest of the county. Councilmember Sullivan noted that for roughly $1 more per month, residents will now have a separated recycling program. He said that was the goal from a rate design standpoint. Mayor Hosterman agreed and said that it is important that people realize this increase is only undertaken once every three years. While there may be some sticker shock, most other cities utilize Waste Management which costs more and does not provide the same services or personal relationship that the City has with PGS. Councilmember Thorne acknowledged the necessity of curbside recycling in the effort to achieve a 75% diversion rate but said that he is struggling with the barrage of additional charges the public is currently facing. He cited increased sales tax and water rates, the school district's parcel tax, and proposed legislation that would tax grocery bags as examples. He asked how discretionary staff considers the proposed program to be. He confirmed that there is roughly a $1 difference between 35-gallon bin and 96-gallon bin service, said that is most likely doable, but is assuming that most residents will switch to smaller cans. He reiterated concerns for increasing costs to the public but said that he will most likely support this because he understands the necessity. Councilmember Sullivan shared the subcommittee's struggles with rate design and the community impact. He said that this solution minimizes impact on the community provided that people are willing to separate their garbage from their recyclables. He noted that Pleasanton is the only city in Alameda County without source separated recycling and also comes in dead last on the recycling diversion rate; this is the only opportunity for the City to reach its goal of 75%. Councilmember Thorne asked if there is any way to adjust the cost difference between the two cans immediately. Mr. Bocian said to do so right now would be very difficult, as the rate schedule needs to remain balanced. He explained that to achieve the rates currently proposed, the gate fee and 96-gallon bin rates have been increased, and the commercial rate has been adjusted in excess of what was required. Councilmember Cook-Kallio confirmed that this program would actually increase jobs. She acknowledged that the average person will only see the rate increase but noted that PGS has faced cost increases in excess of what is offset by these rates. Councilmember McGovern suggested that instructional stickers placed on the inside of the new recycling carts could increase program success. Mr. Bocian said there are also advertising plans. Councilmember McGovern asked staff to elaborate on the recycling fee credit for recyclables delivered directly to the transfer station. Mr. Bocian explained that when a resident delivers 75 pounds of chub material to the buyback station, they may present their bill to be stamped for a credit. Councilmember McGovern asked that this be included in the educational program. Councilmember McGovern doubted that enough senior citizens were aware of the potential for a discounted rate, asked how the City publicizes that, and how people may apply. Mr. Bocian said he is not aware of any advertising and that senior citizens should simply contact PGS to enroll. City Council Minutes Page 9 of 17 April 7, 2009