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Trash collection achieves full automation

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By By Jill Kelley, Staff Writer 12:47 PM Friday, August 26, 2011

CENTERVILLE — As of this week, the city of Centerville’s trash collection is fully automated.

Public Works Director Rob James said the project, which is expected to save the city $125,000 per year, has been phased in gradually since December 2008.

The department has two automated trucks and a rear-load truck with a hydraulic tipper for the city’s three trash collection routes.

“The reason we’re not buying a third automated truck (for the final route) is because we’re going to start to peel off routes,” said James, adding that the two automated trucks should be able to absorb additional stops. “It is a more efficient system.”

James said if routes are assigned to different trucks, trash days would not change. The cost to residents for trash collection also will remain constant at $18 per month.

Centerville households were each given a 96-gallon trash container, built to work with the automated process, to gauge individual need.

“Some (residents) will need smaller containers, like the 64-gallon, and others may consistently need more,” James said. “We can give them a second container for an additional $2 per month.”

James said if residents use the 96-gallon container and the additional 64-gallon tub, it will equal the same 160-gallon limit the city previously maintained in the form of five 32-gallon containers.

“The only reason we have any restriction at all is to encourage recycling,” James said. “The 160-gallon limit should be no problem for anyone if you recycle.”

The city allows unlimited recycling, which is unaffected by the automation. Residents can purchase orange recycling stickers at Centerville City Hall, 100 W. Spring Valley Road, or the Public Works Department, 7970 S. Suburban Road.

James said the money saved is due to fewer staff on trucks and fewer workers’ compensation claims related to having to lift and handle trash. He added that there will be no layoffs due to the automation, due to attrition and others working in new roles.

It also was noted that the trucks do not pick up brush, but the city offers three alternatives for residents. They can bring it to Public Works between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Wednesdays, call (937) 428-4782 for a special pickup for $25, or take the brush to the Montgomery County Transfer Station, 1001 Encrete Lane, Moraine.

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