Sanitation Fee Increase Comes Closer to Becoming Reality

A proposed increase to the Claremont’s sanitation fees got the support of the Parks, Hillsides and Utilities Committee, which unanimously approved the proposed 2 percent Consumer Price Index, or CPI, increase to sanitation rates for fiscal year 2013-14.

The committee gave its approval during its April 15 meeting. The proposal now goes to the Community and Human Services Commission at its May 8 meeting for their consideration, Claremont City Manager Tony Ramos wrote in his weekly report.

A Public Hearing on the proposed CPI increase is scheduled for 7 p.m. May 14 in the City Council Chamber.

The increase is necessary because the Sanitation Fund is an enterprise fund, which is required to cover all expenses through fees collected for service, Ramos wrote. It is also City policy to maintain a minimum of 15 percent fund balance for use for contingencies, emergencies and vehicle replacement, he wrote.

“The City has reviewed its sanitation fees to assess the adequacy of revenues to maintain the City’s solid waste operation,” Ramos wrote. “Based on its review of ongoing costs, the City anticipates that in Fiscal Year 2013-14, operational shortfalls and necessary vehicle replacements will decrease the Sanitation Fund balance below the 15 percent minimum requirement.”

The proposed increase is in line with the consumer price index (CPI) for Los Angeles, Riverside and Orange County, according to Ramos.

Anyone with questions about the increased is encouraged to call the Community and Human Services Department at (909) 399-5431.