Summary
Recyclable commodity prices crashed in 2025 — the county budgeted $95 a ton but got $53, missing revenue projections by roughly $450,000. Staff are considering flat budgeting and a reserve fund to smooth the swings.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 2
- Last 30 days
- 0
Last discussed May 21, 2026.
Impact analysis
Roughly $450,000 less recycling revenue than budgeted in 2025, cushioned by the department's fund balance.
Residents whose trash tag and recycling fees are cushioned from commodity price swings.
Mentions & discussions (2)
Facilities and Infrastructure Committee - Regular Meeting — May 21, 2026
Recycling revenue is tracking about $200,000 below the $80-per-ton budget for 2026. Staff plan to budget $70 a ton for 2027 and are considering smoothing revenue with a multi-year average; members also heard enthusiasm for expanded food-scrap recycling.
Planning, Energy, and Environmental Quality Committee - Regular Meeting — February 5, 2026
Recyclable commodity prices crashed in 2025 — the county budgeted $95 a ton but got $53, missing revenue projections by roughly $450,000. Staff are considering flat budgeting and a reserve fund to smooth the swings.
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