The Grafton Municipal Solid Waste Advisory Committee recommended an increase in the  cost of the town’s pay-as-you-throw trash bags in an effort to make the program self-sustaining. The Select Board approved the recommendation on Feb. 3.

Currently, a roll of small bags costs $8 and a roll of large bags $14. Beginning in July, prices will rise to $15 for small bags and $24 for large bags — increases of 75 percent and 71 percent, respectively.

Town officials said the adjustment reflects rising disposal costs and aims to close a nearly $600,000 funding gap. With the new pricing structure, the program is projected to move about $130,000 into surplus, fully funding operations through bag fees.

Town Administrator Evan Brassard told the board the pay-as-you-throw model remains one of the most equitable approaches to municipal trash collection.

“One of the reasons we decided to stay with the pay-as-you-throw model is that it’s just about as equitable as any model out there: You only pay for what you produce,” Brassard said. “Staying in this program and making it self-funding means residents who don’t use this program are no longer subsidizing it.”

Officials also noted the program’s environmental benefits. By tying costs directly to waste output, residents are encouraged to reduce trash, while recycling and composting rates are expected to increase.

Select Board member Ann Marie Foley said the change also addresses concerns from residents without municipal trash pickup.

“There are folks that live in condos in town that have reached out to me. They’re paying the same taxes as everybody, and they don’t get trash service at all,” Foley said. “For them, this is a win. Those who use the trash system are paying a fair share.”