Metro is responsible for ensuring that all solid waste generated in the region is managed in a manner that protects public health and safeguards the environment. The 2030 Regional Waste Plan serves as the region’s blueprint for investing in our garbage and recycling system, reducing the environmental and health impacts of materials that end up in this system, and advancing progress towards Metro’s racial equity goals. The plan is implemented collaboratively with local governments and partners in local communities.
Metro’s annual budget is adopted by Metro Council and covers the fiscal year from July 1 to June 30. With the development of the budget each year, Metro Council adopts solid waste fees. Under Metro Code, the fees must be reviewed by an independent expert. Read the independent review of solid waste fees below.
Metro is looking at innovative solutions and best practices to ensure the garbage and recycling system uses public money wisely and is responsible, transparent, and equitable to everyone who uses, works in or is otherwise impacted by the garbage and recycling system.
Budget and fee setting process
The annual budget process incorporates Metro Council’s strategic direction into a comprehensive policy and financial plan for all Metro programs and services. The process is designed to meet the expectations of the public, our partners and requirements of Oregon Budget Law.
The solid waste fee setting process runs parallel to the budget process. In 2022, Metro Council provided policy direction on future solid waste fee setting. This includes:
- Fee predictability to stabilize fees across the next five years
- Limiting the annual fee increase to 7-8%
- A process to review the overall methodology including cost allocations to various fees and recovered materials.
Fee setting process timeline
- Update solid waste fee model (September-December)
- Adopt solid waste fees (Expected in January-March, subject to change based on Council direction and/or calendar availability).
Local government partners
Metro is working to provide accountability, increased transparency, and shared understanding of the budget development and fee setting process. To build on the foundation established in fiscal year 2022-23, WPES will hold budget forums with local government partners at key steps in the process.