Long-Term Public Outreach Builds Public Engagement in San Diego

The City of San Diego implemented its first residential solid waste cost‑of‑service study following the passage of Measure B, introducing new fees while prioritizing equity, transparency and community trust.

HDR supported the City of San Diego Environmental Services Department with a year‑long, multi‑phase outreach program that helped inform policy decisions and meet Proposition 218 requirements.

This work is featured in the article “San Diego’s Cost-of-Service Study Sets a Standard” published in the American Public Works Association Reporter, authored by Sarah Lind, HDR senior strategic communications coordinator, with Jeremy Bauer, assistant director for the City of San Diego Environmental Services Department. Using San Diego’s experience, the article highlights:

• A phased, listen‑first community engagement approach.
• Equity‑focused outreach tools and partnerships with community‑based organizations.
• How public input directly shaped the adopted fee structure and financial assistance program.