Bradenton temporarily halts recycling. Too many workers waiting on COVID-19 test results

The city of Bradenton is temporarily suspending its recycling services to residents, according to a press release issued late Thursday night.

City officials say the suspension is because there are too many employees not at work while waiting on COVID-19 test results.

With eight workers out for now, the city is prioritizing garbage and yard waste pickup in the interim.

Public Works Director Jim McLellan said due to the length of time it takes to get the results and potential quarantine periods, “We have adjusted our collections so that we can assure the greatest degree of service possible.”

The suspension began Friday and is intended to last for a week, but could be extended depending on staffing.

The city did not immediately offer any further details as to why the eight employees were being tested, other than to say it is city policy to keep employees who are awaiting COVID-19 test results at home.