Photo: A 64-gallon bin being lifted into an automated trash collecting truck.
Note: Below is a letter from the Belmont Department of Public Works with details on the new automated trash collection system approved by the Board of Selectmen.
At their meeting this past Monday, Sept. 25, the Board of Selectmen voted in favor for the Department of Public Works to obtain competitive bids for automated trash collection. This change in service will require residents to place their trash in the provided 64-gallon wheeled cart and set in front of their residence. After the RFP is put out in October and a hauler is chosen there will be information on more specific details. However at this time here are the known details:
This change in service will require residents to place their trash in the provided 64-gallon wheeled cart and set in front of their residence. After the Request For Proposal is put out in October and a hauler is chosen there will be information on more specific details.
However at this time here are the known details:
- Only trash will have automated collection
- The Town will provide wheeled 64-gallon containers. There will be a consideration for residents that have concerns maneuvering their carts to the curb. DPW will set up a home evaluation to determine the best method to accommodate the resident.
- The option to buy an overflow bag will be available.
The selectman also voted for the following curbside services to be bid on the next contract. All of the services will remain the same except for bulky items. Residents will now only be allowed one bulky item per week and it must be scheduled through the DPW Office. Residents are now doing this for CRT’s and appliances.
- One bulky item per week
- Every other week dual stream recycling collection
- CRT’s (televisions, computer monitors and laptops)
- Appliances
- Yard waste collection
The Belmont DPW feels that the automated collection with 64-gallon carts will balance Belmont residents’ expectations between services, costs and environmental impacts. This will put the Town in a better position now and in the future.
There will be additional detail information with more specific details in the months after the RFP is awarded. Any questions or suggestions, please contact Mary Beth Calnan/Belmont Recycling Coordinator at mcalnan@belmont-ma.gov or 617-993-2689.
The automated garbage pick up plan will not reduce Belmont’s waste production or costs.
This in not an environmentally thoughtful choice.
The 64 gal barrels are too large for our small town.
Where does one pick up the barrel? My car will NOT hold a 64 gallon barrel.
Sonjarlee@aol
I believe the waste collection company – which own the barrels – will drop them off at your address.