Bel Air, Stop Putting Out Your Bulk Trash: Coronavirus Response

BEL AIR, MD — The town of Bel Air is no longer picking up bulk trash from the curb. And although the town announced the temporary suspension of this service March 23, officials say residents continue putting out their bulk trash.

"We are still seeing these items thrown along the road," Mayor Amy Chmielewski said. "Items were picked up this week, but they will not be" moving forward.

Residents must stop putting these large items out, as they are not going to be picked up.

"We needed to discontinue our bulk pickup through public works, and I understand that this is inconvenient for a lot of people that are either being furloughed or working from home," Chmielewski said during public teleconference this week with the Board of Town Commissioners. "We have a lot more time on our hands [and are] able to clean out areas we weren't able to clean before."

That does not mean someone will be coming to get these items, however.

"We need to please, please, please make sure that we are not putting any bulk items out," the mayor said. "At this time, they are suspended for pickup."

Regular trash pickup and recycling collection will continue as scheduled, and yard debris collection will continue.

"Other things are happening because of this pandemic, which is causing [public works staff] to focus their time on other areas of the town as best as they can, and I think they are doing a fantastic job," Chmielewski said.

When residents put their trash out, officials also have a request: Bag it tightly to keep sanitation workers safe from the spread of the illness.

"We have adjusted our services, and we may need to adjust further as this pandemic continues," Chmielewski said. "Please work with us, and please be understanding."

See Also:

• Bel Air Coronavirus Response: Town Closes Parks, Modifies Service
• Coronavirus: Bel Air News And Updates