HomeMy WebLinkAbout3/18/2025 Item 6a & 6b, Johnson
MJ Johnson <
To:CityClerk
Subject:Protest of San Luis Garbage Solid Waste Rate Increase Proposal
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Dear Mayor and Councilmembers:
I am writing to offer my vehement protest to the proposed nearly eight percent (8%) increase in
rates for residential solid waste management services provided by San Luis Garbage (Waste
Connections, Inc.). This increase, far above the rate of inflation (2.9% in 2024), is on top of a
massive increase imposed upon city residents in 2022. In fact, less than three years ago (June,
2022), San Luis Garbage/Waste Connections, Inc., requested and the City Council gladly approved
a rate increase of over 30%, retroactive to May of that year. What a lovely benefit for a giant
corporation – to charge more for services already performed. Outrageous.
My income is not in any way keeping pace with these massive increases. Does the City ever offer
any pushback when Waste Connections demands these rate hikes? Does the corporation even pay
for the 14 page flyer mailed out by the City presenting the increases like a fait accompli? It really
feels as if the City is simply doing the bidding of a giant corporation at the expense of its
constituents.
It must be a sweet deal to get huge, guaranteed, retroactive increases in income far beyond the rate
of inflation. This is especially galling given that Waste Connections’ posted a net profit of over
$600 million in 2024. However, increases like that proposed are neither sustainable nor just. It
really feels like the rampant injustice we now see at the federal level has arrived on our own
doorsteps. Is it really so unreasonable that the elected councilmembers represent, and look out for,
the residents of this city? You should all seriously consider that some basic public services, like
solid waste management, may not be compatible with profit motive.
I fully understand that the cost of goods and services must occasionally rise and that public
improvements require funding. To that end, I have voted for every tax increase and bond measure
that has appeared on my ballot since I returned to San Luis Obispo 29 years ago. However, it does
not feel that there is any consideration being granted in my direction at the moment.
Please know, I intend to oppose any councilmember who votes to approve this outrageous and
unjust proposal as presented.
M. J. Johnson
274 Highland Drive
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
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