CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA – The Central Contra Costa Solid Waste Authority, also known as RecycleSmart, has awarded a 10-year franchise agreement for waste collection services to Republic Services. The new contract, approved by the Authority’s Board of Directors at its July 24, 2025 meeting, will begin on March 1, 2027.
Republic Services will continue to provide collection of solid waste, recyclables, and organic materials for the Authority’s Member Agencies, which include the towns of Danville and Moraga, the cities of Lafayette, Orinda, and Walnut Creek, and parts of unincorporated Contra Costa County, including Alamo, Blackhawk, and Diablo.
The current agreement with Republic is set to expire on February 28, 2027. In preparation, the Authority issued a Request for Proposals in October 2024. Two companies submitted bids: Republic and Mt. Diablo Resource Recovery (MDRR). Following a detailed review and negotiation process led by a Board sub-committee, Republic’s proposal was selected.
According to the Authority, Republic’s final proposal came in 14% lower in cost than MDRR’s, saving approximately $9.6 million annually—or nearly $100 million over the life of the agreement. Non-cost factors in both proposals were found to be comparable, with Republic’s plan showing sufficient resources and a credible approach to maintaining reliable service.
The agreement also requires Republic to replace the majority of the collection vehicle fleet with new trucks by the start date in 2027, as the current fleet will have reached the end of its useful life.
The combined cost of the new collection and previously awarded post-collection agreements, along with added services and related expenses, is expected to result in a 26% rate increase. However, reserve funds held by Member Agencies may be used to help ease the impact on ratepayers. Final rates will be determined in early 2027.
For more information, visit www.RecycleSmart.org, email authority@recyclesmart.org, or call (925) 906-1801.
