The cost to dump garbage at Santa Fe County's transfer stations is about to increase considerably.

The county will hold a hearing today to gather public input on proposed rates that would more than triple certain dumping fees.

According to county officials, the changes are needed because current fees don't even begin to pay for the cost of operating the Solid Waste Division.

The division's operating costs are about $2.3 million annually, but passes to dump trash at county transfer stations bring in only about $285,000 per year.

According to data provided by staff, Santa Fe County's existing rates for trash disposal are well below those charged by neighboring counties. For example, Santa Fe County residents pay $35 for a 24-punch pass. Comparable passes cost about $100 in Taos County, $128 in Rio Arriba County and $148 in Torrance County, according to information provided by Santa Fe County.

If the proposed changes are approved, Santa Fe County's 24-punch pass would be eliminated. County residents — including those who live in the incorporated areas of the county — would be charged $230 per year for an unlimited-use pass.

The existing 10-punch residential pass would still be available under the proposed new fee structure, but would increase in cost from $20 to $60.

The cost for individually tagged bags of trash would remain at $5 per bag if the new rates are adopted. An additional option — a one-time pass for $10 — would also be created.

When the new rates were discussed last month, Santa Fe County Commissioner Kathleen Holian expressed an interest in creating incentives for people to recycle more and dump less. That goal has been incorporated into the new fee structure by eliminating the current $15 charge for the unlimited recycling card. If the new rates are adopted, county residents will be able to bring as many recyclables as they like to any of the county's seven transfer stations for free.

The $50-per-ton cost for commercial entities to dispose of their rubbish at county transfer stations would stay the same under the proposed new rate structure. But small businesses would see a hefty increase — from $50 to $350 — in the cost of their 24-punch passes.

IF YOU GO
What: Public hearing on rate increases for trash permits
When: 5 p.m. today
Where: Santa Fe County Commission chambers, 102 Grant. Ave.

Contact Phaedra Haywood at 986-3068 or phaywood@sfnewmexican.com.