Unusual number of automated trash routes missed on Maui

The Solid Waste Division experienced an unusual number of automated drivers out this week due to injury, emergency vacation, planned vacation and sick leave, which resulted in several automated refuse routes being missed.

The County of Maui Department of Environmental Management, Solid Waste Division, will “make every attempt” to pick up all missed automated trash routes tomorrow, Saturday, July 24, 2010.

“As we entered the new fiscal year, we have been presented with a number of new challenges due to a lack of additional drivers and the implementation of budget cuts and furlough days,” said Cheryl Okuma, Environmental Management Director. “We have evaluated the recurring staff shortages and have determined that there is no way to avoid incurring overtime costs to make up the missed routes. Future missed automated routes will be picked up by personnel working overtime to pick up missed routes as soon as possible,” she said.

Customers with excessive amounts of trash are asked to avoid placing green-waste, cardboard and other recyclable items in the trash bin to ensure that all trash fits into the bin. Green-waste is accepted from residents free of charge at the Central Maui Landfill, where it is composted. Cardboard can be recycled at numerous County-operated recycling sites.

For locations and schedules of recycling centers throughout Maui County, visit www.mauicounty.gov/recycle.

File Image Courtesy County of Maui.