SANTA FE, July 24, 2023 – The City of Santa Fe Environmental Services Division (ESD) is seeking approval from the Governing Body on the second of two planned rate increases recommended by a comprehensive cost of service study conducted by Newgen Strategies and Solutions, LLC. The study recommended the rate increases as a component of a five-year plan to ensure ESD continues to receive enough revenue to cover the cost of providing services. The first increase went into effect in 2022, and was ESD’s first rate increase in six years. If approved, the new rates will go into effect on September 1, 2023.
The second rate increase will affect residential collection and commercial roll-off trash/recycling collection services. The proposal also includes a suggested cart replacement fee of $60 for customers whose carts are damaged due to negligence beyond normal wear and tear, and for requests for replacement due to customer preference. ESD does not charge customers for damage caused by collection vehicles or workers.
The Governing Body will have a final vote on the rate increase on July 26, 2023. Residents can view the meeting agenda and packet and find information for streaming or listening to the meeting on the City’s PrimeGov portal.
Rate Increase FAQ
What is the proposed monthly rate increase on my household bill?
Residential collection rates will increase $2.75 from per month, from $19.25 to $22.00
What are the other proposed rate increases?
Commercial roll-off categories will see these fee increases:
- Scheduled service increased from $225.00 to $235.00, per pull.
- Call-in service increased from $275.00 to $285.00, per pull.
- Monthly rental fee for non-service increased from $225.00 to $235.00.
- Delivery fee increased from $19.00 to $50.00.
- Rental fee for non-service, increased from $225.00 to $235.00
Why a rate increase now?
The Santa Fe Solid Waste Management Agency increased their tipping fees in July 2023. Their fees will continue to increase every year until 2025.
At the current rates, ESD is not recovering the funds needed for daily maintenance and operations, to keep vehicles safely on the road, and maintain a staff of qualified operators, mechanics, and support personnel. Inflation and other cost increases mean the Division is now spending more than it is generating in revenue.
The proposed rate increase includes budget for necessary annual vehicle replacements, to pay outstanding debt, and offset potential future costs due to inflation or other unforeseen circumstances.
How will the new rate compare to other municipalities in New Mexico?
The new proposed rate will keep the City of Santa Fe in the median range for rates statewide.
I am a low-income resident, does the City offer any assistance for my utility bills?
Yes, you can apply for the low-income credit program here.
What is the suggest cart replacement fee and when will it be charged?
A cart replacement fee of $60 will be charged to customers due to negligence other than normal wear and tear; and for requests for replacement due to customer preference. ESD does not charge customers for damage caused by collection vehicles or workers.
Carts should only be used for household trash and recycling. Carts are most often damaged by customers when hot ashes, chemicals, or fireworks are placed in the cart. These things can cause the combustion of trash or recyclables that damages or melts the plastic resin. Carts can also be damaged when loaded with construction, remodeling, or landscaping materials such as concrete, rock, and brick. Those materials can also damage the internal truck machinery or cause combustion in the truck leading to even more damage and danger to the driver.