Trash fees raise serious concerns of equity and fairness. Charging fees for trash removal outside of the general real estate tax levy places a disproportionate burden on elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, and households least able to absorb new, recurring fees. Such regressive charges are fundamentally different from taxes assessed based on property values, which more accurately reflect a household’s ability to pay. Historically, Lexington has embraced a civic philosophy that essential municipal services are shared collectively and funded equitably through the property tax system. This approach is consistent with the Town’s spirit, culture, and long-standing commitment to fairness. A fee-based system for basic waste disposal represents a departure from those principles and shifts costs onto those with the fewest financial alternatives.
10,600 voters turned out as recently as 2002, with approximately 70% voicing their opposition to trash fees. The lack of specificity in the Select Board’s comments on this issue during its June 8 meeting are consistent with concerns that there is no practical means for a municipal board, administrative agency, or other appointed or elected body to provide fair and comprehensive relief in a fee based system. No matter what the criteria, individuals will fall between the cracks. Fees will unfairly force disabled individuals and those with limited means to undergo the indignity of displaying their personal conditions to a public administrator.
Moreover, residents have very limited discretion over the volume and nature of much of the waste they generate. Significant portions of household trash arise from medical necessity and manufacturer-imposed packaging rather than consumer choice. Items such as disposable diapers, medical device packaging, prescription containers, and even soiled mattresses are unavoidable for many families and seniors. Imposing per-unit or service-based fees under these circumstances effectively penalizes residents for conditions beyond their control.
Other municipalities may have adopted fee-based trash systems, but the acts of other municipalities do not establish that fee based programs are appropriate—or equitable—for Lexington. These are many of the reasons why I am voting No on June 16.
John F. Rossi