Huntsville’s adjustment to sanitation rates guarantees delivery of optimal service

Published on October 10, 2024

The rate for these services is a modest $16.50 per month. For just the second time in 25 years, the City has determined that rate is not sufficient to maintain these services.

A new ordinance up for City Council consideration would increase the single-family rate to $21.50 on Jan. 1, 2025. The rate would increase again to $24.50 on Jan. 1, 2027. It represents the first increase since 2010.

For yard debris and other bulk collections, 10 cubic yards are picked up each week under the standard rate. The excessive bulk rate for this debris, which is $45 per five cubic yards over the covered 10 cubic yards, will increase to $55 on Jan. 1, 2025, and to $60 on Jan. 1, 2027.

As part of the rate study, the City compared its rates to the rates in peer cities.

“We have resisted rate increases for years but the time has come when we can’t delay this any longer,” said Chris McNeese, Director of Public Works. “Everything costs more now, and it’s impacting our ability to provide necessary services that our residents depend upon. Our sanitation department works hard and takes great pride in meeting the needs of residents.”

In addition to standard services, Public Works offers “off the street” services, which accommodates residents who – for medical reasons – are unable to take their cart to the edge of the road for collection. Sanitation workers bring the cart to its automated trucks on the street for garbage collection, then return the cart to the residence. This option is considered for those who fill out an application.

“We need to ensure we can continue to deliver quality, sustainable services at the lowest possible cost to our customers,” said McNeese. “The rate increase will allow us to maintain, grow and improve our services.”