Waste Management Truths and Myths

Truths and Myths about Waste Management's proposed contract with Brevard County

Myth:
Waste Management is cutting back on collections to save money.

Truth:
Collection schedules will remain the same:
     ● Household garbage collection - Two times per week
     ● Yard waste collection - One time per week
     ● Recycling collection - One time per week
     ● Clam shell pickup (bulk yard waste) - Available one time per week
     ● Bulky item pickup - Available one time per week

Myth:
I will have to buy two carts for the service, which cost $70 each.

Truth:
Waste Management will provide each address with one 64-gallon cart and 96-gallon cart free of charge. These carts are barcoded and assigned to the address for identification. Waste Management is responsible for the maintenance and proper functioning of the cart. Residents will not need to purchase another garbage container for the duration of the contract.

Waste Management will pay for or replace Waste Management carts under the following circumstance:
● Damage caused by normal wear-and-tear

Residents will pay for or replace Waste Management carts under the following circumstances:
     ● Damage to carts caused by resident's abuse or negligence (for example, dumping hot
        coals in the cart)
     ● Residents who wish to have more than two carts

Myth:
The carts aren't large enough to hold all the waste my family produces.

Truth:
A survey conducted in November 2006 about the Auto Cart pilot program in a portion of unincorporated Brevard County showed that 72 percent of residents agreed that the two carts are sufficient for yard waste disposal. Ninety percent of residents also indicated that they would like to continue Auto Cart Service.

Myth:
Fewer workers are needed to run the automated trucks, causing lay-offs.

Truth:
Employees are not being laid off with the switch to Auto Cart service. The switch actually benefits employees, who no longer have to wear a back brace to help prevent back injuries or routinely lift cans that weigh as much as 50 pounds. The U.S. Department of Transportation also projects a labor shortage of 200,000 qualified commercial truck drivers within the next 10 years, meaning recruiting and hiring the top-tier safe drivers Waste Management demands will become increasingly difficult. Auto Cart service ensures residents continue to receive first-rate service while protecting and preserving our labor force.