Agenda - 11-11-2014 - 1 - Laserfiche WebLink

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ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT Meeting Date: November 11, 2014 Action Agenda Item No. 1 SUBJECT: Update on Urban Roll Cart Implementation DEPARTMENT: Solid Waste Management PUBLIC HEARING: (Y /N) No ATTACHMENT(S): Draft Oops Tag for Improper Set -Out Special Collection Guidance Document INFORMATION CONTACT: Gayle Wilson, 919 - 968 -2885 PURPOSE: To receive an update on the implementation of roll carts in the Urban Curbside Recycling Program and the subsequent performance of the program. BACKGROUND: On November 19, 2013 the Board of Commissioners (BOCC) authorized the County Manager to proceed to execute a Letter of Intent with the Towns affirming the intention of the Towns to allow the County to purchase the roll carts and provide curbside recycling services. Additionally, the BOCC authorized the Manager to award a bid of up to 1.1 million dollars for the purchase of 19,500 95- gallon roll carts. In June 2014 the County Solid Waste Department began distribution of roll carts within the Towns completing the distribution of approximately 18,100 carts and initiating service in July. Initially there were concerns expressed by residents, primarily in Chapel Hill, regarding the large size of the carts and approximately 80 residents requested that County staff pick up their new carts. Virtually no complaints are currently being received about cart size, color, etc. Staff has received at least five calls reporting missing or stolen carts. Staff has also received a few calls regarding broken carts. Investigation has determined that damaged carts typically result from carts misplaced at the curb (not squarely facing the curb and clear of mailboxes /fire hydrants, etc.) so that when the automated collection vehicle's mechanical arm grasps the cart, it is not properly aligned when dumped into the truck body and damage to the cart can result. Staff is currently developing a program outreach plan to remind residents of proper cart placement. Initially staff intends to record the address and send a letter explaining how to properly locate the cart at the curb for collection. Ultimately, collection may be suspended to those residents not following the guidelines. Attached is a draft "oops" tag that will accompany a letter that staff plans to send to residents who have difficulty following the cart placement requirements.