Trash bins on a curb (File Photo – Skitterphoto)
The City of San Marino is on track to select Valley Vista Services (VVS) as its new waste hauler, following a competitive proposal process aimed at ensuring compliance with updated California state mandates, particularly Senate Bill 1383.
By News Desk
Last month, the City initiated a formal proposal process to secure waste hauling services beginning May 31, 2025. Of six companies that submitted letters of intent, four followed through with full proposals: American Reclamation, Athens Services, Republic Services, and Valley Vista Services.
Following comprehensive evaluations—including independent financial reviews, reference checks, and interviews conducted by the City Council’s Ad Hoc Waste Hauler Committee—VVS emerged as the top choice. The committee, comprised of Mayor Steve Shepherd Romey, Vice Mayor Gretchen Chou, City Manager Phillip Eskandar, Public Works Director Michael Shah, and outside consultants, has formally recommended that the contract be awarded to VVS.
The recommendation is based on several key criteria:
- SB 1383 Compliance:
VVS operates the only CalRecycle-certified High Diversion Organic Waste Processing Facility in Southern California—one of just four statewide. This enables San Marino to retain its existing “two-stream” waste collection system (organics in one bin, all else in another) while remaining in full compliance with state mandates. - Preservation of ‘Backyard’ Service:
VVS will maintain San Marino’s current ‘backyard’ collection method, in which waste carts are retrieved and returned by hauler staff, keeping bins off public streets. - Enhanced Customer Service:
VVS plans to deploy a dedicated “San Marino team” and establish a daily in-person customer service desk within the city. This team will engage residents across multiple platforms and offer multilingual support. - Contractual Commitment:
VVS agreed to all terms in the City’s proposed contract without requesting any exceptions—ensuring immediate and full compliance with all legal and environmental standards. - Competitive Pricing:
VVS submitted the lowest residential rate at $57.61 per month. The pricing includes annual adjustments based on the Producer Price Index, as specified by the City, with no further increases.
While the Ad Hoc Committee’s recommendation carries weight, the final decision rests with the full City Council. A special meeting to consider the contract award is scheduled for Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at 7:00 pm in the City Hall Council Chambers.
Summary of submitted proposals (Photo – Screenshot)
Residents are encouraged to attend the meeting or follow city updates for the official decision. Full proposal documents, along with a summary comparison, are available through the City of San Marino’s website.
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