Some residents and a city councillor are speaking out with their dissatisfaction with the handling of the new garbage and collection system in Winnipeg. The city, meanwhile, is asking for residents to be patient.
With the new system rolling out across Winnipeg on Oct. 1, some residents have said they've faced delays getting service.
Richmond West homeowner Gary Wooden said his trash wasn’t picked up on the scheduled day.
“It wasn’t picked up Friday. The recyclables and the garbage itself (were) picked up Sunday,” said Wooden.
Others were still waiting for pickup on Tuesday with carts left out since last week.
“I think these contractors told our administration one thing and perhaps couldn’t deliver on it,” said Coun. Paula Havixbeck (Charleswood).
The city said trucks that pick up garbage, recycling and yard waste are now out until 10 p.m. each night trying to catch up.
The city is reminding residents to keep the carts an arms length apart to help speed up the collection and it’s asking homeowners to call 311 if you’re been missed.
Ralph Johnson, an Oaks neighbourhood resident, said he’s tried that.
“311 can’t give us the answers. I guess they’re not given any (answers) either. There’s a breakdown somewhere up the line. We just want to find out what’s going on,” said Johnson.
Havixbeck said her office has fielded several complaints over the holiday weekend.
Contractor Emterra currently has a five-year contract with the city.
“I’m trying to be optimistic, but I’m also a realist and I wouldn’t hesitate to say it’s not the right contractor if they can’t get up to it in three or four weeks,” said Havixbeck.
City administrators released a statement asking Winnipeggers to remain calm while the kinks in the new system are worked out.
“We thank citizens for their patience as the new collection system is refined,” said the city in a release.
Some homeowners said they want to know why measures weren’t taken before the new system was rolled out.
“You expect these things - the planning and everything - going in behind them would be pretty solid,” said Gary Wooden.
Coun. Havixbeck said it’s not entirely the fault of the contractor, with many residents not putting their carts out properly. She also pointed towards parked cars on residential streets on the Thanksgiving weekend posing obstacles for garbage trucks.
The city is also reminding homeowners experiencing delays to make sure bins are kept out, so they won’t be missed when crews do arrive.
