St. Marys Mayor Joe Hurlburt says the city’s Solid Waste Committee is reviewing possible changes to monthly refuse and recycling rates after hearing a new rate study presentation during a meeting Monday night in City Council Chambers.

Hurlburt said the city has not raised its monthly refuse rate since April 1, 1999, and a combination of higher operating costs and equipment needs prompted the city to commission a rate study to help the solid waste fund become self sufficient.

The Solid Waste Committee includes council at large members Aaron Gilliland and Michael Acquero Jr., along with third ward councilman Jim Chrisman. The committee first heard a rate recommendation from Auglaize County Solid Waste Management District Director Alex Warderer, who presented a proposed new rate of $31.95 per month in September. Hurlburt said council members requested a second study, leading the city to hire RRS.

Hurlburt said Erin Olten of RRS presented findings Monday night, explaining the current program operates at a financial deficit and the goal is to adjust fees to fully cover operating and equipment costs. He said the discussion also focused on educating the public about the costs of running a solid waste department, including equipment, fuel, insurance, wages, and transfer station fees.

According to Hurlburt, the RRS proposal recommends a rate of $39.95 per bin for all households, both city and non city customers. He noted the city has moved away from refuse bag tags and has invested in equipment including an automated recycling truck and toters.

No decision was made Monday night. Hurlburt said the Solid Waste Committee plans to meet again Monday, February 2, at 5:15 p.m. in Council Chambers.