Workshop to address trash collection changes

Two workshops are set to discuss the new three-cart trash collection system that is being implemented later this month in the city of Shafter. The do’s and don’ts of the system will be reviewed, with representatives from American Refuse on hand to answer any questions.

The first will be Thursday, July 15, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.at Mannel Park and another workshop on Saturday, July 16, at Veterans Park, from 9 to 10 a.m.

The change also includes the elimination of alley service in the city at the end of the month, with all trash pick-up service be done curbside. This is going to require many households to make changes to their properties, or require residents to get their carts to their curbside, and put the cans away out of sight of the street when not on a collection day.

This has caused a protest by several residents that claim the change will cause them undo stress, and costs, changing the process in place when they purchased their homes. “My house was built with the premise of there being alley service for the trash containers. To get my property accessible for curbside pickup, I am facing a cost of $5,000, and I guarantee you that this will not happen,” former mayor Gary Nelson said at a recent City Council meeting.

Those with questions about the requirements of the new three-cart system are encouraged to attend one of the workshops scheduled.

The three-cart system is a part of the state’s SB1383 law that is aimed at reducing organic waste that ends up in the city and county landfills. It makes it a requirement for cities to reduce their waste by a certain percentage or face hefty fines for violation.