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Newscast: Cost of Garbage Pickup to Increase in Willits

An arch announces the city of Willits as the heart of Mendocino County
Thomas Hawk
/
Flickr
The welcome arch in Willits, CA

The Willets City Council addressed a 2.55% increase in garbage collection fees during its meeting on Tuesday, bringing the weekly rate for a 35-gallon cart to $35.52 and a 95-gallon cart to $96.32. The increase, tied to the cost of living, sparked spirited debate among council members and residents.

The issue first surfaced at the council’s January 8 meeting, where newly elected Councilmember Matthew Alaniz questioned the lack of public notice for the fee adjustment. City Manager Brian Bender explained that the increase fell within the parameters of the existing franchise agreement, which exempts minor cost-of-living adjustments from public hearing requirements. “If they were going for a significant increase that would alter their fees, public notice would be required,” Bender said.

Alaniz, however, cited the Brown Act, arguing that any fee increase, regardless of size, should require public notice. Councilmember Tom Allman supported Alaniz’s concerns, emphasizing the need to ensure compliance with the law. "We can’t do it just because that’s the way it’s always been done," Allman said.

By Tuesday’s meeting, Alaniz said he had reviewed the legal details and now supported the increase. “My heart is always with the people of this town. I never doubted that the city was acting in good faith. I just wanted to ensure we were making decisions based on the law,” he said, expressing gratitude to staff for their patience and detailed explanations.

Despite the approval, some residents expressed dissatisfaction. “We need to negotiate contracts in a way that better protects the community,” one attendee remarked.

Allman noted the collection company’s responsiveness and transparency, including the decision to request a lower-than-allowed increase under the contract. “The Bay Area cost-of-living adjustment was 2.7%, but you’re asking for 2.55%. That shows thoughtfulness,” Allman said, adding that local rates are competitive compared to neighboring areas.

The council concluded the discussion with a suggestion from Alaniz to provide public notice for future adjustments, even when not legally required. The measure passed without formal opposition, leaving the city and its waste management provider aligned for another year.

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Local News Willits
Elise Cox worked as an editor and reporter for the San Jose Mercury News, Knight Ridder, U.S. News & World Report and other publications prior to moving to the Mendocino coast in 2022. She began reporting stories for KZYX in August 2024 and became news director in December 2024.