The Phoenix Public Works Department is recommending a multi-year solid waste fee increase, beginning July 1, to cover an expected budget shortfall (photo courtesy of city of Phoenix).
The Solid Waste Division of the Public Works Department is expecting a budget shortfall of $20.8 million this fiscal year. To address this shortfall and to keep revenue on pace with expenses in the future, they are recommending a multi-year fee increase.
The Public Works Department has presented a plan to City Council that would adjust the residential solid waste rate, which they say is needed to keep up with rising operating costs. The proposal outlines a $6 monthly increase for 2026 and 2027, and $5 for 2028. They are also proposing an increase the optional curbside green organics collection subscription fee to one-fourth of the applicable monthly Solid Waste rate, effective July 1.
The last time a solid waste rate adjustment was approved was in 2020. Since then, the department says that staff costs have risen 32 percent, vehicle costs have gone up by 52 percent, and construction and maintenance costs for critical infrastructure have increased by 40 percent. During the same time period, the monthly solid waste rate only increased by 2 percent annually.
If a rate increase does not go into effect to start the fiscal year in July 2026, the city says that the Public Works Department would be unable to provide solid waste collection and disposal services as they currently exist. The alternative to a rate increase would be large reductions in service.
Residents are invited to attend any of the community info sessions scheduled this month – with two presented in Spanish and one virtual only – where they can hear directly from Solid Waste representatives and have their questions answered. In North Central, a session will be held Tuesday, March 10, 6 p.m., at Washington Activity Center, 2240 W. Citrus Way.
Council will vote on the proposed rate adjustment on April 22. For a schedule of the community info sessions, detailed rate charts and answers to frequently asked questions, visit www.phoenix.gov/swrate2026.
