Phoenix Proposes Garbage Collection Fee Hike, Warns of Service Cuts

City cites rising costs, financial shortfall as reasons for nearly 50% increase over 3 years

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Phoenix's Public Works Department has recommended raising monthly garbage collection fees for residents by almost 50% over the next three years, citing rising costs such as inflation. Officials warn that without the rate increase, a reduction in waste collection and disposal services is likely. Some city council members have voiced concerns that the hikes will disproportionately burden low-income families.

Why it matters

Adjustments to essential services like waste management often present difficult trade-offs between maintaining service levels and ensuring affordability for all residents. The potential for disproportionate impact on vulnerable populations is a critical consideration for policymakers.

The details

The proposed fee increase would see Phoenix residents paying significantly more for garbage collection over the next three years. The Public Works Department, which serves over 400,000 customers, says the adjustment is necessary to avoid a reduction in services due to a 'shortfall' in the department's financial status caused by 'rising costs such as inflation and just general things getting more expensive.'

  • The City Council is scheduled to vote on the proposed adjustments in April.
  • The Public Works Department has warned that without an update to the rates by July, a reduction in waste collection and disposal services is likely.

The players

Felipe Moreno

Director of the Phoenix Public Works Department.

Anna Hernandez

Phoenix City Councilmember who has voiced concerns that rate increases typically burden low-income families the most.

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What they’re saying

“We must adjust rates to avoid a reduction in services for the over 400,000 customers we serve.”

— Felipe Moreno, Director, Phoenix Public Works Department

“Rate increases typically burden low-income families the most, even those who contribute less waste.”

— Anna Hernandez, Phoenix City Councilmember

What’s next

The City Council is scheduled to vote on the proposed fee increases in April. If the rates are not updated by July, the Public Works Department warns that a reduction in waste collection and disposal services is likely.

The takeaway

This case highlights the difficult balance cities must strike between maintaining essential services like garbage collection and ensuring affordability, especially for low-income residents. Policymakers will need to carefully weigh the trade-offs and potential impacts on vulnerable populations when considering rate adjustments.