Solid Waste Contract

Garbage, recycling, and compost bin lined up on a curb for collection

A new contract with Recology starts on July 1, 2025. Recology was selected to continue serving Bothell following a competitive process. The City Council authorized the contract for garbage, recycling, and compostables service with Recology King County on July 9, 2024. 

Customers can expect to see information from Recology starting in May 2025. Additional information is available on Recology's website.

Service Enhancements

Several features were added in response to community requests.

  • Two on-call pickups of bulky items (mattresses, appliances, etc.) for residential customers included annually
  • Pickup of three 32-gallon equivalent bags, bundles, or cans of extra yard waste included once annually
  • Compost collection of up to two 96-gallon carts for multi-family and commercial customers at no addional cost to align with new state organics management law
  • Designated Recology Waste Zero Specialist to provide education and support to the community
  • Continued special recycling item collection curbside and at The Recology Store in Canyon Park
  • Low-income senior and low-income disabled service discount of 25% off listed rates

Background

In 2023, Public Works began a competetive procurement process for a new Garbage, Recycling, and Compostables Service Contract. The City’s current contract with Recology runs from January 1, 2015 to June 30, 2025. 

Community Engagement

A survey was conducted in August 2023 to assess current levels of satisfaction, determine what services people value, and how to prioritize cost, reliability, customer service, sustainability, and other key measures. Survey results indicated satisfaction with current garbage, recycling, and compost service. The 2024 Community Survey showed similar results. This feedback was taken into account during the procurement process to meet the needs of our community.

Request for Proposals (RFP) Process

To prepare for the RFP process, City staff released a draft contract for industry review. The RFP was then advertised for three months with opportunities for proposers to ask clarifying questions. The City received one proposal from Recology and negotiation of the final contract was completed in spring 2024. The City Council approved the final contract in July 2024.

Rates

In recent years, neighboring cities have seen significant price increases. Bothell's new rates are comparable to others in our region. For more information about rates and to make any adjustments to your service, visit Recology's website.

How can I lower my bill?

Recycle and compost collection services are embedded in regular garbage service and offered at no additional cost. The best way to lower your garbage bill is to recycle and compost more, then downsize your garbage cart to the next lower cart size. Your bill is determined by the garbage cart size and the service frequency you subscribe to.

Is financial assistance available?

Low-income senior and low-income disabled service discounts of 25% off listed rates are available to qualifying customers. Learn more about the low-income discount program.