**Editor's note: This story has been updated from its original version to include Republic Services' statement and updated schedule sent Monday.**
Summit County leaders are not happy with the recent delays in trash and recycling pickup. Several residents have complained about the delays in service in the past few weeks.
Republic Services is responsible for waste collection in the county. The company says heavy snow and resulting traffic jams are the reasons it has not been able to stick to regular schedules. The company has asked for patience from residents.
Republic Services has posted plans for trash pickup this week on the county’s website, saying it expects to be caught up for both trash and recycle by start of business Wednesday, Jan. 11.
Update from Republic Services, 1/9/23 1:40 p.m.
- Richardson Flats and Silver Creek Village trash should be recovered by mid-afternoon Monday, Jan. 9, at the latest.
- Summit Park and Pinebrook trash will be serviced Tuesday, Jan. 10.
- For recycling, Francis, Woodland, Promontory and Silver Creek Village will be serviced Monday, Jan. 9.
Pinebrook, Summit Park, Timberline and Parleys Lane will be delayed until Tuesday, Jan. 10.
- Summit County said it is receiving additional resources in an effort to be fully caught up on both trash and recycle county-wide by the start of business Wednesday, Jan. 11.
- Anything not recovered Monday, Jan. 9, per the schedule outlined above will be recovered Tuesday, Jan. 10, according to Summit County.
On Saturday, Summit County issued a statement that said it is “clear that weather is not the sole cause of the issues our residents are experiencing.”
The county’s statement said the extent of recent disruptions are unacceptable and it is focused on holding Republic Services accountable to return to normal service according to its contract with the county.
That $4 million contract was renewed for five years last summer. The contract includes financial penalties for non-performance and a requirement to resolve customer complaints within two business days.
Republic Services sent a statement to KPCW Sunday night, explaining the delays were caused by "unique circumstances," such as the holidays being observed on a Monday (both Christmas and New Year's Day were on Sundays). The company said it had mailed out updated collection calendars but there was still confusion about when trash and recycling was supposed to be set out on the street. Also, unsafe road conditions caused several truck slide-offs, even though the trucks had chains on, that put those trucks out of service for several hours. Drivers from as far away as St. George have been dispatched to Summit County to help. Republic Services added it is a "committed community partner" and they appreciate customer's patience and understanding.
