City of Fort Collins, I am not your friend today.

I got a letter from my homeowners’ association over the weekend regarding our trash coverage – a city ordinance has impacted it in some way.

Their proposed change to How Things Work is not a good change.  Here’s the history of my trash service:

• Private contract with Gallegos Sanitation: $11/month for a 65-gallon container and a recycling bin.
• A year ago, the HOA says that they’ve contracted with Gallegos as the trash service provider for the neighborhood.  Trash is now included in the HOA dues which are raised ~$11/month as a result.  I keep my existing bin.
• This weekend: HOA says they’re now only paying for a 35-gallon bin as part of the service; my 65-gallon bin will be another $8/month.

Initially, I thought my HOA was screwing me over on the rates so I called Gallegos to find out what the private contract cost was.  Gallegos informs me that said City Ordinance requires that a 65-gallon container cost 2x the 35-gallon price and a 95-gallon container cost 3x the price.

Dear City of Fort Collins: You just doubled my trash rates.  I’m not happy with you.  Expect this to impact my votes in any upcoming elections.