During the recent Denton Public Utilities Board meeting, significant discussions centered around the proposed budget for the solid waste fund for the fiscal year 2025-2026. The meeting, held on July 28, 2025, featured a presentation by Matt Hamilton from ADF Finance, who outlined key financial details and operational changes.

The solid waste department has proposed a 4.2% increase in its budget for the upcoming fiscal year. However, it is important to note that there will be no base rate increase for solid waste services in 2026. This decision comes after a thorough review of the budget through a zero-based budgeting process, which is a new approach for the city. This method requires departments to justify all expenses from the ground up, rather than basing them on previous budgets.

As a result of this review, the solid waste department identified approximately $980,000 in budget reductions. These cuts include $212,000 in personnel costs by reducing the number of deputy directors from two to one, $209,000 in materials and supplies, $17,500 in maintenance and repair, $397,000 in operational costs, and $144,000 related to fixed assets, specifically opting to rehabilitate containers instead of replacing them.

The proposed updates to the rate schedule reflect these changes, emphasizing the department's commitment to maintaining service levels without increasing costs for residents. The board members were encouraged to ask questions regarding the budget and specific projects, indicating a collaborative approach to finalizing the budget.

In summary, the Denton Public Utilities Board's discussions on the solid waste fund budget highlight a strategic effort to manage costs while ensuring continued service delivery. The absence of a base rate increase, coupled with significant budget reductions, demonstrates a proactive approach to fiscal responsibility in the community. As the board moves forward, the focus will remain on balancing operational needs with the financial impact on residents.