Changes to waste disposal fees and charges came into effect July 1 in the Comox Valley and Campbell River.
The minimum charge has gone from $4 for loads less than 60 kilograms to $6 for loads not exceeding 100kg.
In addition to the $2 increase, the landfill sites have implemented a $4 site access fee, making the new minimum charge to users $10 – a jump of 150 per cent.
Soil and turf charges went from $5 to $15/tonne for loads greater than 100kg. Loads less than 100kg are charged the minimum load fee.
Drywall is an exception. Tipping fees dropped from $200 to $110/tonne (the construction and demolition debris rate) as of Feb. 14.
Increased landfill diversion — largely in construction and soil-related waste — means revenue collected through tipping fees has decreased.
To address declining tonnage and higher service costs, the regional district has reduced overall program costs, and focused expenses on core operational needs and environmental protection.
To meet financial requirements for the next five critical years, increased tipping fees and diversion program changes have been necessary.
“Cost-saving measures and rate increases are projected to increase revenue by nearly $750,000 each year for the next five years,” manager of solid waste Tom Boatman said.
The drywall diversion program has been temporarily suspended due to declining revenue at the landfill. Drywall is considered a construction and demolition waste, disposed in the landfill as a cost-saving measure.
reporter@comoxvalleyrecord.com