Why taxpayers are subsidizing organic trash pickup in Minneapolis

Hennepin County taxpayers are subsidizing organic trash pickup in Minneapolis to help residents manage their garbage bills and promote environmental sustainability. The County Board approved a four-year, $180,000 annual subsidy for the city's organics program, which has been operational since 2016. Minneapolis creates 5,000 tons of organic waste each year, and the county cannot process all of it, making the subsidy essential. Last year, Hennepin County spent $1. 2 million on managing organics but collected only $650,000 from fees charged to haulers.

This discrepancy means taxpayers are covering nearly half of the costs, amounting to about $1 per household. The 2022 mandate requiring curbside organics pickup has significantly boosted recycling rates by 25%. Local officials emphasize the need to reduce organic waste in landfills to avoid greenhouse gas emissions and support the county's "zero waste" goals. Community leaders are also advocating for the closure of the Hennepin Energy Recovery Center due to health concerns, highlighting the urgency of transitioning to sustainable waste management practices.