Columbia County residents see increased costs for waste disposal

A boost in fees at the Columbia County Transfer Station has kicked in.

The Columbia County Board of Commissioners recently approved a 3.6% increase in solid waste fees, effective July 1, at the St. Helens location.

According to the county, disposal rates at the transfer station are adjusted annually based on the previous year’s Consumer Price Index.

“This year’s CPI increase of 3.6% has resulted in a corresponding rise in disposal rates, impacting both commercial and residential customers,” the county said in a news release.

The commercial rate will increase from $106.12 to $109.94 per ton. Residential customers with once a week curbside collection for a 35-gallon cart will also see adjustments.

Scappoose, effective July 1, will have an increase of $1.19 a month while neighboring St. Helens will notice an increase of 96 cents per month. In Vernonia, the increase is $2.25 a month.

Curbside collections fees in Clatskanie saw an increase of $1.04 a month, while in Rainier the increase is 97 cents per month.

New solid waste fees are also in effect, the county says.

The commercial fee is $109.94 per ton. For self haul, a minimum up to 320 pounds is $26.89, over 320 pounds is $163.59 per ton and the senior rate up to 320 pounds is $16.55.

Addressing yard debris, for a minimum up to 860 pounds, the fee is $26.89, over 860 pounds, the fee is $64.24.

Fees for recycling items and unsecured loads will remain unchanged.

The Columbia County Transfer Station is located at 1601 Railroad Ave. in St. Helens and is open 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, except for holidays.