Gulfport Council Eyes Garbage Service Charge Changes

Gulfport City Council members reviewed proposed amendments to the city's garbage collection ordinances during their meeting Thursday, Sept. 3, 2026. The first reading of Ordinance No. 2026-11 focuses on updates to Chapter 11 of the Code of Ordinances, specifically concerning service charges and billing for garbage collection.

The ordinance aims to amend Article I of Chapter 11, addressing Sections 11-21 (Service Charges) and 11-22 (Billing). The proposed changes signal potential adjustments to how residents are charged and billed for garbage services. The council noted the ordinance includes provisions for repealing conflicting ordinances and for severability.

Supporting documents included a memorandum, the full text of Ordinance No. 2026-11 and Exhibit A, likely detailing proposed amendments. Exhibit B, a "Residential Garbage Collection Cycle Analysis," and a letter from Pinellas County regarding a rate increase from PCTMC suggest the changes may be influenced by regional waste management costs and operational analyses. Pinellas County's Adopted RES 26-57 also was referenced.

The first reading is a procedural step for initial discussion. Further deliberation and a second reading are required before any changes can be officially adopted.