Sisters City Council discusses waste rate hikes, Moves Northwest Park plan forward

SISTERS, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Sisters City Council held a town hall meeting Wednesday night, focusing on several proposals that could directly impact residents and businesses. Among the main topics: a discussion on potential rate hikes for trash and municipal solid waste services, and updates on the Northwest Park project.

Republic Services, the city’s waste provider, gave a presentation outlining proposed changes to service rates. However, several councilors said the information lacked clarity.

Councilor Gary Ross expressed frustration with the lack of detail, saying the proposal did not provide enough data to make a financial decision.

“I don’t make monetary decisions on partial information,” Ross said, noting that the presentation seemed vague and inconsistent when comparing increases and decreases in rates.

No decision was made during the meeting. Republic Services plans to return in the coming months with additional information before any rate changes are considered. Council members emphasized that discussions are still ongoing and no rate increase has been approved.

In other business, the council formally accepted a report outlining goals for the Northwest Park project. Next steps include developing a full master plan, which is expected to be presented later this year. That plan will shape the project’s future direction, leaning more toward a traditional community park rather than earlier ideas for a large pavilion.