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The Select Board discussed, but did not vote on, proposed trash fee increases after an analysis projected the enterprise fund could reach an approximately $2.5 million deficit by FY31 without changes. Options included a 12.5% FY27 increase followed by 5% annual increases, or 7.5% annual increases.
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Bellingham's trash and recycling program is funded by resident fees, but current rates have not covered expenses in most of the past five fiscal years. Under the first proposal, a single-family household would pay about $13 more per quarter in FY27; under the second, the increase would be just over $7. The Board also discussed ending the discounted per-unit rate for multifamily properties and reviewing Recycle Center expenses and capital needs. A vote was expected at the July 6 meeting, which could delay FY27 quarterly bills by several weeks.
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