Prior to the start of budget deliberations at a special study session Thursday, the Kirkland City Council unanimously approved a resolution that provides for a one week credit to garbage customers within the Kirkland city limits.

From July 25 to Aug. 1, members of the Teamster’s Local 117, whose membership includes recycling and yard waste truck drivers for Waste Management of Washington, Inc., went on strike which resulted in disruption of garbage, recycling, and yard waste collection service for single-family, multi-family and commercial customers.

The council’s action allows for the city to use  part of its payment to Waste Management for collection services in an amount of approximately $278,000 to cover the cost of the credits. The amount of the one week credit each customer receives will vary depending on the account holder’s garbage service level. Credits will appear in utility statements beginning with the November billing cycle.

The city intends to fully pursue all performance fees outlined in its contract with Waste Management, which was implemented in July 2011 and expires in June 2018.

“This credit was developed out of fairness to all residents, can be easily calculated, and does not result in excessive administrative costs to the city,” said Michael Olson, deputy director of finance and administration.

The City of Kirkland bills utilities for the entire city in eight cycles over a two-month period. For more information about utility billing, including garbage, recycling and yard waste, visit www.kirklandwa.gov/utility or call 425-587-3150.

 

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