The Bakersfield City Council is set to consider a new ordinance next week repealing the senior rebate program, sparking debate in the community.

The senior rebate program provides a 50% refund on annual trash fees to citizens over the age of 65 who own or occupy a single-family home.

City Attorney Virginia Gennaro is calling for the repeal and said the rebate cost more than $500 this year.

Opponents said the senior citizens generate less trash than younger age grounds, and that this is an attempt to get more tax dollars from citizens.

The city council will address the rebate issue at their meeting on March 8.