Atlanta Development News

City Utilities Committee Discusses Solid Waste Rate Adjustments to Address Deficit and Fleet Needs

The City Utilities Committee held a work session to discuss a proposed solid waste rate adjustment. The adjustment is necessary due to a $53 million debt obligation to the general fund and the need to replace an aging fleet. The proposed changes include two rate increases in fiscal years 2027 and 2028, aimed at generating additional revenue to cover operational costs, fleet replacement, and establish a reserve fund consistent with other enterprise funds. The study also incorporates more realistic fleet replacement timelines and tighter cost centers compared to previous analyses. A key difference from the last study is the inclusion of the general fund repayment, which was not anticipated previously. The city is also reviewing service levels, fleet replacement schedules, and fee recommendations for additional carts. Feedback from 16 Municipal Planning Units (MPUs) visited has been minimal, with no significant concerns raised regarding the rate adjustments. The current billing system, managed by CAB and Fulton counties, maintains high collection rates.