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Town of Paonia Announces Garbage Collection Rate Adjustments and Service Procedure Updates


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Flyer from the Town of Paonia, Colorado announcing garbage service updates. The flyer features the Paonia logo at the top with mountains above the text. Headings include "Garbage Service Updates" and "Rate Changes: Effective for September Bill." Rates are listed as: Single 33-gallon can: $28 per month (was $25), requires signed agreement and town-issued sticker. 2–3 cans: $35 per month (was $30). 4–5 cans: $53 per month (was $45). Additional cans: $30 per month each. 2-yard dumpster: $70 per month (was $60). 3-yard dumpster: $85 per month (was $70). Yard waste collection rules require certified compostable bags or labeled reusable containers, limited to 3 cubic yards, with branches no longer than 4 feet and 4 inches in diameter. Non-compostable plastic bags, dirt, cactus, glass, stumps, treated lumber, construction material, and animal waste are not accepted. A section titled "Bulk, Excessive & Oversized Items" explains that a pre-purchased sticker is now required: small appliances $20 each, large appliances $60 each, furniture $50 each, mattresses and box springs $50 each. Items with hazardous materials in refrigerators, electronics, and air conditioners are not accepted. The flyer includes an example image of a pre-purchased sticker, instructions about service verification for stickers, and updated contact information: phone (970) 527-4101, email Paonia@TownofPaonia.com , and website townofpaonia.colorado.gov. Design elements include red, blue, gray, and brown text boxes highlighting rate changes, requirements, and restrictions.

Paonia, Colorado — The Town of Paonia Board of Trustees has approved updates to garbage collection rates and procedures to ensure the long-term sustainability of municipal waste services. These changes, adopted through Ordinance 2025-04 and Resolution 20-2025, will take effect on the September 2025 utility bill.

Why Changes Are Necessary

Rising landfill tipping fees, fuel costs, and equipment maintenance have caused the Town’s garbage collection fund to operate at a deficit. The Board acted to revise service rates and clarify collection procedures to maintain reliable services while protecting public health and safety.

Updated Residential and Commercial Rates

Beginning with the September billing cycle, new rates will be as follows:

  • Single 33-Gallon Can: $28/month  (previously $25) – requires a signed service agreement and Town-issued sticker.

  • Two to Three 33-Gallon Cans: $35/month (previously $30).

  • Four to Five 33-Gallon Cans: $53/month  (previously $45).

  • Additional Cans Beyond Service Level:$30/month per can.

  • 2-Yard Dumpster: $70/month (previously $60).

  • 3-Yard Dumpster: $85/month (previously $70).

 

Bulk and Oversized Item Collection

Residents must now purchase pre-paid stickers for bulk, excessive, or oversized items placed at the curb. Charges include:

  • Small appliances (toasters, blenders, etc.): $20 each.

  • Large appliances (washers, dryers, etc., with hazardous materials removed): $60 each.

  • Furniture: $50 each.

  • Mattresses and box springs: $50 each.

Electronics, hazardous materials in refrigerators or air conditioners, and certain other items will not be accepted for collection.

Yard Waste Collection Procedures

To promote sustainability and reduce landfill impact, new yard waste rules are now in effect:

  • Yard waste must be placed in certified compostable bags or clearly labeled reusable containers.

  • Collection is limited to three cubic yards per resident (approximately 21 compostable bags).

  • Branches must not exceed four feet in length or four inches in diameter.

  • Items such as non-compostable plastic bags, dirt, stumps, treated lumber, glass, and animal waste will not be collected.

Enforcement

Violations of the new ordinance, including unauthorized use of dumpsters or improper disposal of prohibited items, are subject to fines of up to $1,000 per day.

Town Leadership Statement

“While it is unfortunate that we must raise rates, the Town has no choice but to respond to rising operational costs that are outside of our control,” said Town Administrator & Treasurer Stefen Wynn. “These changes were not taken lightly. They are necessary to ensure that Paonia’s garbage collection program remains financially stable and that we can continue to provide reliable service to residents and businesses. By updating rates and strengthening collection procedures, we are protecting the long-term health, safety, and sustainability of our community.”

More Information

For questions about rates or collection procedures, residents may contact Town Hall at: (970) 527-4101, email: Paonia@TownofPaonia.com, or visit: townofpaonia.colorado.gov.