Tucson Considering Collection Fee

Erin Spinka

Tucson, Ariz. -- To avoid budget shortfalls in the coming fiscal year, City Manager James Keene has said he is considering a garbage collection fee for the city. What would be a $13 to $17 household fee could bring in $18 million to $22 million annually. Keene says the new funds could provide needed streets upkeep or pay for additional police. Many city council members reportedly are opposed to the fee, and some residents are hoping to opt out of citywide collection to avoid paying. Tucson rejected a garbage fee in 1994. Many other Arizona cities, however, have acquired collection fees as a source of revenue.