After complaints, Manatee County launches new bulk trash pickup. What to know
Manatee County Government is launching a new, no-cost bulk trash pickup program for a one-year trial.
Under the county’s single-bin trash program that began in October, bulk pickups are available by appointment only and priced at $59 each. But after ongoing complaints from residents, county officials say a new pilot program will provide the service at no additional cost to trash customers.
“We heard you,” Manatee County Government said in a social media post announcing the new program.
Beginning May 1, each household can place two bulk items on their curb for pickup each month. Residents can also request one annual bulk collection per property — up to 10 cubic yards of a single material type.
The Board of County Commissioners approved the pilot program 5-0 on Tuesday, with Commissioner Jason Bearden absent.
How to participate in no-cost bulk trash pickup
The pickups will take place on a predetermined scheduled day each month, and collection days will be displayed on the Resident Information Tool. The county says that customers can also receive a text reminder of their collection day.
Residents must schedule pickup for items such as tires, appliances and the annual free bulk pickup in advance through the County’s Customer Self-Service Portal.
Additional bulk pickups can still be scheduled for $59 each.
“This is going to make a big difference for a lot of people,” Commissioner Amanda Ballard said.
What’s not included in bulk pickup program?
Some items, such as hazardous waste and electronic scraps, will continue to be excluded from the pickup and will not be collected curbside.
“Manatee County residents may continue to drop off these materials free of charge at the Lena Road Landfill, and the County will continue offering four remote household hazardous waste drop-off events each year,” the county said.
County officials say they intend to use this pilot program as a way to evaluate participation and efficiency before making a long-term decision regarding bulk trash pickup.
