BALTIMORE, MD (Friday, September 11, 2020) — In response to the Department of Public Works’ recycling pickup suspension through November 1, 2020, Council President Brandon M. Scott is continuing to mobilize volunteers to support residents across Baltimore with recycling and trash pickup. He is encouraging residents to contact the Council President’s Office if they need assistance with issues involving residential recycling pickup or missed trash collection.
Residents seeking assistance with a trash or recycling issue are encouraged to call the Office of the Council President at (410) 396-4804 or email a detailed message with location(s) to councilpresident@baltimorecity.gov. Issues involving missed trash collection should be first reported to 311.
On August 27, the Department of Public Works announced a suspension of residential pick-up recycling services to clear a backlog of missed trash routes impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Council President Scott sent a letter to the Acting DPW Director expressing frustration at the ongoing challenges associated with regular trash and recycling pickup and called on DPW to take steps to better serve residents.
The Council President also committed to helping solid waste workers during this challenging and unprecedented time by mobilizing his office, as well as volunteers, to support in that effort until regular services can resume.
Beginning this weekend, the Council President’s office will serve as a conduit for volunteers and institutional support for those affected by the collection suspension.
“We know that everyone does not have the means to drop off their recyclables at the drop off centers in the allotted timeframes, especially our seniors and people with disabilities. I am happy to roll up my sleeves and assist Balitmoreans through this challenging time.”
Those interested in volunteering to assist with this initiative can sign up at this link. There is a particular need for volunteers with access to pickup trucks.
On Tuesday, September 15 at 2:30PM, per the Council President’s request, the Housing and Urban Affairs Committee will hold a hearing with the administration and DPW to discuss the impact of COVID-19 on basic trash and recycling services.
Members of the public and press can stream the hearing online, watch live on CharmTV (Channel 25/1085HD), or call in to listen at 408-418-9388 (Access code: 129 735 5191). Information and an agenda for the hearing can be found here.
