Solid Waste Rate Changes

Disposal: Landfill Tipping Fees

• The Houston County Landfill has emerged as the regional low-cost provider for disposal of municipal solid waste (MSW), construction & demolition debris (C&D), and yard waste. The landfill’s rates are approximately half or less of the advertised rates of other local landfills and transfer stations. Rates at the landfill have not changed in more than 25 years.
• The landfill has seen increased tonnage in recent years, and instead of improving financials, the operating loss at the landfill has increased. In FY 2022 the landfill experienced an operating loss of $1.2M.
• The landfill is owned by the citizens of Houston County and should primarily benefit them. Any use by regional municipal or commercial partners should be to the advantage of the citizens. As such, host fees should be appropriately set to ensure that Houston County citizens experience the primary benefit from the landfill.

Staff has recommended the following changes to tipping fees:

• MSW increasing from $20.50 to $22.50 per ton
• C&D increasing from $15.50 to $18.50 per ton
• Host fees increasing from $2.00 to $4.00 per ton
• A scale fee of $5.00 for cash and check customers