EWSU-Republic Services Sanitation Contract FAQs
Why EWSU is bringing this forward now
- The monthly sanitation fee has stayed at $13.30 for four years, even though the cost
of providing trash service has increased.
- During that time, EWSU has used cash reserves to cover the difference instead of
raising rates.
- That approach is no longer sustainable and would lead to a much larger financial
problem if no action is taken.
How this approach protects customers
- The proposal spreads changes over time instead of forcing a sudden increase later.
- Under the amendment, the monthly fee would increase:
o from $13.30 to $15.30 in 2026
o to $17.30 in 2027
o and to $20.92 in 2028
- Taking a gradual approach helps avoid a much larger increase all at once when the
current contract expires in 2028.
- If nothing changes, the funding gap is projected to grow to about $5 million by 2028
Customer service changes included in the contract amendment
- All sanitation-related calls would be handled locally by EWSU, instead of Republic’s
call center.
- EWSU customer service staff would enter and track service requests directly,
improving response time and accountability.
- Republic Services would provide two large dumpsters, up to eight times per year, to
support neighborhood cleanups and heavy trash disposal in addition to the current
heavy trash program.
What EWSU wants customers to know
- This proposal reflects what customers have told us they want: better
communication, local support, and dependable service.
- EWSU is committed to being transparent, thoughtful, and responsible with public
dollars.
- No final decisions have been made — this will move through the public City Council
process.