SOAP LAKE — The Soap Lake City Council approved new sewer and garbage rates Wednesday night, adopting two resolutions that city officials said are needed to keep up with rising operational costs and maintain essential utility services. 

The sewer rate update, approved under Resolution 1034, raises monthly water rates by 3.5% and sewer rates by 5%, effective March 1, 2026, according to the Soap Lake City Council agenda packet. Residential sewer customers will now pay $109.71 per month, while commercial and multifamily rates also increase across all categories.  

Council members acknowledged residents’ concerns about affordability, but noted that the increases are tied to the city’s 2026 budget and ongoing infrastructure needs.  

During discussion, Council Member Kayleen Bryson said the city needed incremental adjustments to avoid “giant shocks” to ratepayers later.  

“We have to do incremental raises each year to avoid having giant jumps by not addressing them,” Bryson said. 

The council also approved Resolution 1035, which updates garbage collection and disposal rates. The changes reflect a 4% increase built into the city’s 2026 budget and follow a 4.75% raise in service charges from Consolidated Disposal Service, Inc. in May 2024. The updated costs also include an additional 3.2% Urban Consumer Price Index adjustment passed previously in 2024. 

Under the new solid‑waste schedule, a standard 64‑gallon cart will cost $22.03 per month before taxes and surcharges, while a 96‑gallon cart will cost $30.27. The rates take effect April 4, 45 days after council approval, as required by state law. 

Council Member Andrew Arnold asked the city to find ways to ease the financial burden on households.  

“Residents … especially those on fixed incomes, are being taxed into oblivion,” Arnold said.  

He suggested options such as additional free dump weekends or expanded composting programs.  

Mayor Peter Sharp said he shares concerns about rising costs but stressed they are bound by contracts and infrastructure responsibilities. Sharp said the city’s garbage contract does not easily allow for alternatives.  

“If there’s a way that we can get out of our contract, we’ll find a way,” Sharp said.  

He said the city currently must pass on mandated increases to consumers. 

The updated rates will appear on future billing cycles beginning in March and April.