Wyoming Waste Proposes Increased Recycling Rates to Keep Up with Rising Costs

During a recent workshop, Wyoming Waste Services asked to increase residential rates for curbside recycling during the Green River City Council workshop.

Pete Rust, Mayor, said at the beginning of the workshop that no decisions would be made regarding the rate issue.

Michelle Foote, site manager of Wyoming Waste Services, said the cost to process recyclables has increased by over $10,000 compared to 2022. The cost is expected to see a similar increase in 2024. Wyoming Waste is asking for a 4.25% increase in residential rates to cover the rising costs.

Council Member Sherry Bushman asked Foote whether recycling is cost-effective. Foote responded that it currently is not, and she doesn’t know if or when it ever will be. Bushman questioned whether the services should continue in Green River if it’s not cost-effective.

“I like the program, I’m all for recycling, but it’s got to make sense. It’s got to make business sense,” Bushman said.

Despite recycling not being cost-effective, Foote said that approximately 75-80% of residents use the curbside recycling program.

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