The 8.5 percent increase in trash collection will increase the present $23.50 monthly cost by $2 to $25.50.Although miscellaneous fees for the Community Center will see an 37 percent increase, the city is still subsidizing users, Bobkiewicz said after Councilman Rick Cook asked for an overview of the issue.“It’s appropriate that there be some subsidization but at the same time recapture as much as we can,” Bobkiewicz noted.A 1999 report by Revenue Cost Specialists showed that the city had been subsidizing facilities rental by 78 percent; last year fees were increased 25 percent.Fees in each category – nonprofit, celebrations/parties and business use – for the evening only use of the Community Center will increase $120, $130 and $192 respectively not including kitchen use also subject to increases.Bobkiewicz said the city would still operate the facility at a loss but at a narrower deficit.In all, increases in sewer fees will bring another $600,000 annually and trash refuse an additional $137,000 to their specific enterprise funds while the increase in Community Center rentals will generate an anticipated $15,000 more each year.
July 1: Council approves increases for sewer, trash & Community Center rental
June 30, 2004
Santa Paula City Council
In about a week, fees for wastewater, refuse collection and Community Center rental will rise after the City Council approved a series of increases at the June 21 meeting.
By Peggy KellySanta Paula TimesIn about a week, fees for wastewater, refuse collection and Community Center rental will rise after the City Council approved a series of increases at the June 21 meeting.The sewer fee will jump 25 percent starting July 1, a move “directly associated” with the city’s need to maintain and replace its aging wastewater treatment plant, said City Manager Wally Bobkiewicz.And more increases are on the way: “Unfortunately, we’re looking at rate increases for the next several years,” with another 25 percent likely next year.The July 1 increase in wastewater fees will see residents’ bills go up from $19.30 a month to $24.13.The refuse fund “continues to struggle” with continued debt service on new trucks and costs for conversion to the three-bin system as well as administration overhead, said Bobkiewicz.The Public Works Department is slated for a management audit similar to the Police Department’s to determine if the city should continue to be in the trash collection business. Bobkiewicz said he expects an audit to be ordered and completed early next year.
