Agenda - 03-26-2015 - 1 - Laserfiche WebLink

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FUNDING OPTION 2 • Most simplified fee structure • Easiest option to administer, manage, and explain • Includes phased expansion of rural curbside service, increasing recycling and waste reduction rate • Flexibility in providing services without being constrained by rigid categories is maximized. o Example: If a business is located on a residential route (urban or rural) and generates recyclables in quantities similar to a residence, it can be assigned to a residential route without regard to changing categories or fee rates. $103 County -Wide SW Program (Per Improved Property) Key Factors • Rural curbside service is proposed to be phased in to entire unincorporated area over three year period, equalizing services by the fourth year. o The program fee will increase incrementally over phasing period. • All developed properties pay the same amount, although eligibility for services may vary between jurisdictions and sectors. • Efforts to provide more equitable services among all the program users could be implemented over time by improving service efficiencies and availability of services. • This option presents a new funding paradigm and new way of viewing solid waste program funding by offering a singular fee. This holistic approach to funding eliminates any division between rural and urban boundaries, creating a truly integrated and comprehensive approach to program funding county -wide. Universal Elements for Both Options • Undeveloped properties do not pay a fee. • All developed properties including tax - exempt properties pay a fee. • The fee structure is stable and predictable. • Fee impacts for potential service expansions, improvements, and changes can be easily determined and made available for elected boards to consider. • Some property owners may consider the proposed fee rates a significant increase because no fee for rural or urban curbside service or multi - family service has been assessed for the past two years. • Failure of elected boards to approve a funding mechanism for the FY 2015 -16 Budget may lead to suspension of services or further debiting of the solid waste landfill closure and post - closure reserves account. • Orange County will continue to provide financial assistance for qualifying low- income residents who are unable to pay for solid waste program fees. In 2014, approximately 700 parcels were provided assistance through the County's 3R Fee Financial Assistance program. • Funding option proposals are based on FY 2014 -15 budget revenue requirements. For FY 2015 -16, minor fee adjustments may be implemented to align with the actual FY 2015 -16 budget revenue requirements.