Curbside Collection in Columbia May Be Delayed

Columbia residents should continue to put out their trash as usual, but it may be picked up a bit later than expected, according to a statement from Howard County government.

Trash haulers from Unity Disposal—one of several contractors serving Howard County—are on strike over contract negotiations.

Related: Trash Haulers Strike Over Contract Negotiations

As a result of the strike, Howard County officials alerted residents Monday that pickup may be delayed, issuing the following statement:

“Due to a labor dispute involving workers at Unity Disposal and Recycling—one of Howard County’s five waste contractors—trash, food scrap and recycling collections may occur later in the day than usual for some 20,000 residents scattered throughout the county.

“Howard County Government is working with Unity and other contractors to continue regularly scheduled pick-ups, with trash and food scrap collections receiving top priority.

“Residents are urged to place materials curbside as usual. On Monday, Dec. 29, questions about collections should be directed to 410-313-6444, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. We will continue to update you on the situation and we apologize for any inconvenience.”

For the holidays, most Howard County government offices are closed until Jan. 2. (See the list of closings here.) The Alpha Ridge Landfill is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Related: What’s Open, Closed in Columbia for December Holidays