Garbage Rate Increase Proposed for Salem, Meeting Oct. 9

(SALEM, Ore) — The City Council will hold a public hearing on proposed increases to Garbage Service rates paid by Salem home and business owners.

Garbage service companies in Salem are granted exclusive rights to operate in a specific geographic location.

The rates they charge are regulated by the city with the goal to keep rates low but allow haulers to earn enough to maintain business operations.

The city says it has historically determined garbage rates on an annual basis by examining market conditions and the garbage service company’s financial statements.

This year's review included in analysis of both eight 2018 and 2019 and led to the overall recommended increase below.

These increases are respective of all services in the category, but may not apply to each size of cart or container.

Rates between Marion and Polk counties very because they differ in how they dispose of waste.

Most Salem residents receive weekly 35 gallon garbage cart service. Cost for the service is proposed to increase $0.80 per month in 2018 for Marion County residents and $0.25 per month for Polk County residents.

In 2019 the proposed increase for the 35-gallon cart service is $0.60 per month in Marion County and $0.25 per month in Polk County.

Public comment on the matter will be at the October 9th City Council meeting.

The Salem City Council meets every 2nd and 4th Monday of the month at 6 p.m. in council chambers at City Hall 555 Liberty Street Southeast, in room 240.