The Kennewick City Council on Oct. 7 adopted a 10‑year franchise ordinance and contract with Waste Management of Washington Inc., approving a revised residential solid‑waste and recycling program that replaces the city’s small bins with covered carts and phases in stepped rate increases.

Staff framed the contract as a response to state recycling requirements that mandate covered, color‑coded carts (recycle = blue, garbage = gray, green waste = green) and said implementation requires new 96‑gallon carts and equipment. The contract phases in the larger carts and an updated recycling collection schedule: 96‑gallon recycling carts collected every other week for most customers, retention of existing service to Toyota Center and the Convention Center, and retention of the fall leaf pickup program.

Public hearing and major concerns: Dozens of residents spoke during the public hearing. Concerns included the size of the new 96‑gallon carts (particularly for seniors and townhouse residents), the proposed rate increases, the loss or reduction of free dump coupons at the city transfer station in prior years, and whether Waste Management had financial losses tied to the transfer‑station coupon program. Several residents advocated for options such as a 35‑gallon recycle cart for households with lower volumes; staff and Waste Management said a 35‑gallon option would be available by request.

Council discussion and company position: City staff and Waste Management representatives said the current small bins do not meet the new state requirements, that replacement with covered carts reduces litter and complaints about bins blowing away, and that the step‑in schedule limits customer cost increases while new carts and trucks are deployed. Staff presented rate tables showing most Kennewick residents fall under the 96‑gallon cart classification; projected 2026 monthly price for a 96‑gallon cart is $29.46 and in 2027 $33.84 under the proposed agreement. The contract also establishes a 1% administrative fee remitted to the city on gross revenue to support administrative costs and a moderate‑risk waste facility.

Council action and vote: Mayor Pro Tem Chiarelli moved and Council member Beecham seconded a motion to adopt the franchise ordinance and approve the contract. The motion passed 6‑1.

Why it matters: The contract implements statewide recycling standards, changes residential collection equipment and involves a multi‑year rate structure that staff said is intended to balance customer impacts while covering capital costs (new carts, trucks and equipment) and operational changes. Residents urged more options for seniors and townhouse occupants and sought clarity on the number and value of transfer‑station coupons and how those affect Waste Management’s finances.

Next steps: If approved as adopted, Waste Management will roll out the new carts and collection program; staff must publish required public notices (the agenda noted a Nov. 5 notice requirement) and coordinate customer communications. Council members asked staff to continue monitoring implementation and customer concerns.