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From:charmaine eliason <br />To:GRP-City Council <br />Subject:City garbacge <br />Date:Thursday, January 23, 2025 9:13:25 AM <br />You don't often get email from cmeliason@sbcglobal.net. Learn why this is important <br />Dear Redwood City Council Members, I am writing to express my deep concern about the <br />recent notice I received regarding the significant increase in garbage rates, which will take <br />effect on February 1, 2025. This follows the $7 increase earlier this year, marking an <br />alarming combined rate hike of $15 per month over the span of just two years. This <br />represents a staggering 44% increase in garbage fees, which is already difficult for many <br />residents, especially those on fixed incomes, to absorb. Additionally, I am troubled by the <br />disparity in rates between Redwood City and nearby Foster City. According to the proposed <br />rates, Redwood City residents will be charged $52.86 per month, while Foster City <br />residents will pay just $37.66. This means Redwood City residents will be paying nearly <br />40% more for the same service, a situation that warrants further scrutiny and explanation. <br />In 2024, I inquired about this disparity and received no response from the city. It is crucial <br />that the City Council address this issue and provide a clear and justifiable explanation for <br />the significant difference in rates between these neighboring cities. While rate increases <br />can sometimes be necessary, it is essential that we, as residents, are given transparency <br />about the reasons behind these hikes. It appears that the city is opting to raise the cost of <br />services rather than exploring cost-cutting measures or finding efficiencies. Furthermore, <br />over the past few years, sewer and water rates have also increased, further straining the <br />financial burden on residents. Many of us are also concerned about the apparent lack of <br />accountability in how our tax dollars are being spent. We understand that the city’s <br />leadership, including the City Manager, receives one of the highest salaries in the region, <br />yet there is little tangible evidence that this is directly benefiting the residents. This <br />continues to raise questions about the prioritization of funds and whether there are <br />excessive costs associated with the management of the city. I urge the City Council to take <br />a step back and evaluate these proposed increases with careful consideration. The impact <br />of these increases on the residents of Redwood City cannot be overstated. Many of us are <br />already struggling to keep up with the rising costs of living, and additional burdens from <br />these service fees are becoming unsustainable. I implore you to address these concerns <br />transparently, seek fair and equitable solutions, and explore alternatives that could reduce <br />the financial strain on residents while ensuring the continued delivery of essential services. <br />Thank you for your time and consideration. I hope that the City Council will take these <br />concerns seriously and work towards a solution that serves the best interests of the <br />community. Sincerely, Charmaine Eliason 21 Alverno Ct. Redwood City, CA. 9406 <br />cmeliason@sbcglobal.net <br />Your written protest must: (i) include a statement that it is a protest against the proposed <br />change in rates; (ii) Provide the name of the record owner or customer of record; (iii) <br />Identify the affected parcel by assessor's parcel number or service address; and (iv) <br />Include the signature of the record owner or customer of record with respect to the <br />identified parcel. Protests will not be counted if any of the required elements (1 to iv) are <br />omitted. Written protests must be received by the City Clerk at the City Hall by 4:00 pm on <br />Monday, January 27, 2025 if delivered by US Mail or email.