(NOTE: This Letter to the Editor for the Pilot is about the Public Hearing/Council Meeting held on Monday January 9, 2012.)
City Council Hears Voices
Monday January 9th turned out to be a very special evening for residents of Redwood City. The City Council voted unanimously to reject the proposed Household Hazardous Waste program and its mandatory monthly fee. The result is that Redwood City residents will be paying a smaller monthly increase than originally proposed for their garbage pickup.
Rate increases for utilities are a sore subject for all residents and the proposed increases for garbage and recycling were no different. Although it is very difficult to understand the web that is Recology, South Bay Recycling and the South Bay Waste Management Authority and how they compute our garbage rates, it was clear from the start that the new service was doomed.
Officials from SBWMA could not provide data, from either studies or surveys, supporting the need or desire for the new Hazardous Waste program. According to historical data from similar programs implemented elsewhere the new program would have been paid for by all rate payers but only used by 5%. 100% paying for 5% in this economy is not acceptable as the Council heard from local residents speaking out at the Redwood City Council meeting on January 9th. In fact San Mateo County already has a program available for residents to take Household Hazardous Waste for free with an appointment. (See below)
Through letters, local newspaper articles, and petitions the City Council was made aware of resident’s discontent with this new monthly charge that surely would increase and never go away for years to come. Most importantly, the Council listened to the speakers at the Council meeting who expressed their concerns. It truly was a victory for Redwood City residents. Thank you City Council for “hearing the voices” of the folks who have to pay the bills!
— Matthew Reising, Redwood Shores Resident
To find a Household Hazardous Waste site and to make an appointment call 650-363-4718 or go to www.smhealth.org/hhw