Section 21-229 of the Billings Montana City Code requires that the City Council annually adopt the Solid Waste collection and disposal charges and landfill fees by resolution.  Staff recommends no increase for the residential and commercial collection and disposal fees for fiscal year 2014 and an average increase of 2.6% for landfill fees.  The landfill fees that are proposed to increase are the minimum charge, landfill charges per cubic foot, municipal solid waste and construction & demolition tonnage charges, and special waste charge per ton.  Beginning in fiscal year 2010, landfill rates have included a 10% surcharge for all Yellowstone County residents who are not residents of the City of Billings and a 20% surcharge on landfill fees for all landfill users outside of Yellowstone County.      

The attached resolution specifies the proposed rates and fees.  A comparison of current versus proposed rates is also attached.  A public hearing is required and if the proposed resolution is approved, rates will be effective July 1, 2013.    

The Council must hold a public hearing and then may

• approve the resolution; or 
• not approve the resolution.  If Council does not approve the resolution, an amended resolution to establish Solid Waste fees for FY 14 will need to be considered at a future City Council meeting.   

Staff recommends that the City Council conduct a public hearing and approve the proposed resolution adopting collection, disposal, and landfill fees effective July 1, 2013.