Solid Waste Two Day Residential Garbage Pickup Proposal

Summary

The City Council of Fort Walton Beach is considering a proposal to increase residential garbage pickup from once a week to twice a week. This change was directed by the City Council on December 16, 2025, and staff has developed an operational analysis and rate proposal. The proposed schedule would involve two routes for trash collection (Monday/Thursday and Tuesday/Friday), with recycling split into four zones across those days, and yard waste/bulk pickup remaining unchanged. Implementation could begin as early as October 1, 2026, allowing time for a new truck delivery and public education campaign. The current rate is $27.13 per month, and the cost for the new service will be presented at the January 27, 2026, Council meeting. Rate comparisons with surrounding municipalities show that a two-day pickup service typically ranges from $24.09 to $38.76 per month.

Citizen Impact

Residents may see an increase in their monthly garbage collection fees if the proposal for twice-a-week pickup is approved. The exact cost will be determined and presented at the upcoming council meeting, but it is expected to be higher than the current $27.13 per month.

Confidence

high