Solid Waste Program FY2027 Rates

At a glance

What: the fiscal year 2027 rates for the town's Pay As You Throw solid waste program.
Where it stands: on June 23, 2026 the Select Board approved the staff recommendation, a 15% increase in Pay As You Throw rates, by a vote of 3-2. The item had been continued from June 9, 2026.

Mizikar presented an updated model compared with the one shown on June 9, calling for a 15% increase to Pay As You Throw rates, which he said would give more financial flexibility in the future.
The board discussed declining trash bag sales, contractual cost increases, and a target of funding 50% of the program through user behavior (bag purchases) rather than the tax levy.
Bag quality was also discussed; defective bags should be brought to town hall for a replacement.

Motion to approve the FY2027 rates as recommended by town staff at 15%: moved by Garcia, seconded by Conlin. Passed 3-2.
Yes: Richards, Sharma, Conlin. No: Flynn, Garcia.
The minutes name Garcia as the mover although he is recorded as voting no; the record is reproduced as written.

Select Board minutes, June 23, 2026 (posted in the Agenda Center under the July 28 listing): https://www.shrewsburyma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_07282026-5446

Rates for FY2027 approved 3-2 with a 15% increase to Pay As You Throw. Yes: Richards, Sharma, Conlin. No: Flynn, Garcia.