Gilbert residents have been called upon by their local Public Works team to step up their trash and recycling game. The town is struggling with issues ranging from fire hazards to damaged sanitation trucks caused by overfilled waste bins. According to a public service announcement from the Town of Gilbert's official website, when residents don't properly break down boxes or overflow their trash and recycling containers, it invites a host of problems like "an increase of fire risks" and "damage to the hydraulic lines on collection trucks."
The mess doesn't stay limited to the bins either, as unsecured trash can escape during collection and litter the neighborhoods – which is both unsightly and unsafe. As per a statement from Gilbert's website: "Spills cause delays in our service as our crews spend an average of two minutes cleaning up compared to just 7-10 seconds to service a can." And with each mishap, the entire community feels the ripple effects in the form of delayed services and increased maintenance costs.
So, what's the fix? Gilbert's Public Works team is encouraging residents to be more mindful of their waste disposal habits. Among the guidelines, the team urges locals to "break down cardboard boxes before placing them in your recycling bin" and "make sure your lids close" to prevent overflow, as noted on Gilbert's website. And if you've ever wondered, no, "pool noodles" do not belong in the recycling container—they go in the trash bin. These small changes can have a significant impact, helping maintain the town's clean image while ensuring the safety and efficiency of the collection crews who serve the community.
For residents with more trash than their bins can handle, the town offers a practical solution: an extra black container available for a monthly charge of $14.90. To place an order, they simply need to reach out to the customer service team. More tips and information on garbage etiquette in Gilbert can be found by visiting the town's recycling page.
