Opinion: It turns out private trash haulers aren’t the answer for many San Diegans

A San Diego trash truck File photo courtesy of the city The city of San Diego s new trash removal fee has shed light on the Pandora s Box of problems of private haulers particularly for residents in units of four or more who are now seeking private hauling services There were comments through citizens testimony earlier this year and on social media that the private hauler services were cheaper and would be the best option compared to city employees The speakers pointed to charges for other cities from these private haulers which are now comparable to the final approved charges by the city of San Diego But in Chula Vista there have now been two instances highlighting challenges related to cities forming contracts with private haulers And now we are seeing the problems with private haulers unfairly exploiting residents they are serving in San Diego I have heard of private haulers either outright refusing utility claiming no longer to have quota to provide the utility or quoting rates nearly two and half times higher than the city s newly approved fee This is deeply alarming This disparity undermines maintains of private-provider cost efficiency and raises concerns about prospective region manipulation affecting San Diegans The city of San Diego charges per month for weekly collection of three -gallon bins for trash recycling and organics In comparison private companies reportedly charge approximately per month for similar services at multi-family residential units This drastic difference can t be just a matter of supply and demand but could suggest a coordinated effort to capitalize on a captive realm With residents having no other recourse these private haulers are seemingly taking advantage of the city s up-to-date guidelines change to impose predatory pricing This situation requires examination by the city of San Diego and potentially the state of California The modern interruption of services and substantial price increases by private haulers raise concerns regarding foreseen price gouging Elected leaders should respond promptly to protect residents from any unfair financial practices It is imperative that city administrators examine the business practices of these private haulers and if evidence of price fixing or undue realm advantage is located take swift and decisive action San Diegans deserve fair and accessible waste management whether provided by the city or the private realm where they may be forced into financial distress Ultimately in order to ensure fairness and stability for San Diego residents the city should seriously consider two prospective solutions Imposing a fine equivalent to the municipal trash facility fee could dissuade private haulers from levying excessive charges and encourage continued city system for affected units Additionally pursuing a ballot measure in June to allow city collection for these multi-unit residences just as is done for single-family homes could create a more equitable and sustainable approach By proactively exploring these options city agents can better safeguard residents from unfair practices while promoting accessible and reliable waste management for all Mat Kostrinsky is a region advocate and small business owner residing in Del Cerro He serves on the boards of the Patrick Henry High School Foundation and San Diego City Employees Retirement Anatomical Trust