City works to curb trash pileups

MADISON – After several weeks of annoying pileups, residents hopefully can see improvements in trash collection in the near future.

“If you have been frustrated with your trash pickup, we have some positive news. Republic Services plans on working through the weekend (of July 15) to get caught up,” a City Hall spokesperson said.

In addition, Republic officials stated they will expand their services starting the week of July 17. The company plans to add two drivers to accommodate for more routes to manage the volume growth.

“We apologize for the inconvenience to-date and hope that this will help us keep on track through the remainder of summer,” the spokesperson said.

City officials remind residents of the guidelines to exercise for trash pickup:

* Residents must place all leaves and clippings in garbage bags and place the bags on the curb.

* Each Madison household can dispose of five (5) cubic yards of trash weekly. If a larger amount exists, Republic Services must return to retrieve the remainder at the next scheduled pickup date.

* Residents must cut tree limbs in lengths for are no longer than eight feet long. Individuals also must trim protruding branches and place these in a neat pile.

* Trash collectors will not pick up hazardous materials. These materials include but are not limited to televisions, microwaves, paint and gasoline.

* Contractors are responsible for their own clean-up services.

At Madison City Council’s July 10 meeting, Council President Tommy Overcash discussed recent delays in trash collection. Overcash said the city has changed the contract process to allow more competition.

“It’s a difficult job. We will get caught up,” Overcash said. In public comments, one resident stated that trash in her neighborhood had not been picked up in more than one month.

At City Council’s May 23 meeting, District 1 Councilwoman Maura Wroblewski described the situation as the “trash apocalypse.” In that timeframe, large amounts of debris from thunderstorms were still on city streets, compounded by breakdown of a trash vehicle that attributed to the backup.

For more information, call David Cannon at 256-327-4425 or email dcannon2@republicservices.com.