Republic Svcs MOA & FAQs

Sonoma County’s Master Operations Agreement (MOA)

A long-term plan for cost-effective, environmentally responsible waste management.

What It Does

• Keeps facilities public while using private operations for efficiency.
• Boosts recycling & composting to over 80% diversion from landfill.
• Protects the environment by cutting greenhouse gases and keeping trash disposal local.
• Supports local programs like waste education, hazardous waste disposal, and business recycling.

Key Benefits

• $119 million in infrastructure investment
• New Material Recovery Facility to sort mixed waste
• Countywide food waste collection at no extra cost for many customers
• Liability protection for cities and County for landfill closure/post-closure
• Stable, predictable rates with minimal annual increases (about 30–60¢/month)

Environmental Impact

• Cuts long-haul waste transport emissions
• Diverts methane-producing food waste from landfill
• Targets major landfill items: food scraps, paper, construction debris
• Regular greenhouse gas studies and public reporting

How It Works

• County: Owns facilities, sets rates, oversees compliance
• Republic Services: Funds upgrades, operates facilities, guarantees diversion levels
• 25-year agreement (with option to extend)
• All cities except Petaluma participate

Oversight & Accountability

• Strict diversion targets with financial penalties if missed
• Ongoing monitoring by County staff
• Oversight from state and regional environmental agencies
• Strong financial safeguards, insurance, and guarantees from Republic Services