Residents and businesses in Foley will see a modest increase in garbage collection rates beginning April 1 as city leaders move to address rising costs tied to inflation.

Foley City Council approved the rate adjustment in February, marking the first increase in residential sanitation fees since 2019. City officials said the change is intended to help offset higher expenses for waste collection and disposal while maintaining the level of service residents expect.

Under the new rates, the monthly cost for the first residential garbage can will rise by $3.25, bringing the total to $23. The fee for a second residential can will remain unchanged at $16 per month.

The monthly residential rate covers weekly collection of household garbage, recyclable materials, yard debris and bulk items.

Commercial customers also will see an increase. Dumpster collection rates will rise by 50 cents per cubic yard for each pickup. The updated commercial rates will take effect April 1 as well.

Mayor Ralph Hellmich said the adjustment reflects the economic realities of recent years while keeping the city’s sanitation program financially stable.

“We want to maintain the quality that the city expects for those services, but we all have lived through very inflated times in the last six years,” Hellmich said. “This change in price does not capture all of that inflation, but it captures some of it, and so it is adjusted to what keeps us whole and able to provide the service and not make money.”

City officials said the increase is designed to ensure fair and equitable delivery of waste collection services across Foley without generating profit. The city expressed appreciation for residents’ understanding and continued support as the new rates are implemented.