A legal battle over San Diego’s trash collection fees has concluded with a settlement just as the trial got underway.
The lawsuit, brought by local homeowners, challenged the city’s implementation of Measure B, which ended free trash pickup for single-family homes. Plaintiffs argued that the city’s nearly $44 monthly fee violated Proposition 218 by exceeding actual service costs and defying the initial voter-approved estimate of $23 to $29. While city attorneys defended the rates due to rising disposal costs, leaders ultimately opted for a compromise to avoid further financial risk.
Under the terms of the settlement, San Diego will cut the controversial trash fees in half moving forward and completely eliminate paid parking at Balboa Park by early next year. In exchange, opponents agreed to dismiss the lawsuit and withdraw a ballot measure aimed at repealing the fees.
