Harrison Ponders Trash Collection Change

Harrison is considering making changes to the way it collects garbage from its residents. 

In order to save time, money and to avoid potential injury to town workers, the sanitation department might require all residents to bring their garbage to a public curb.

No final decision has been made, but discussions have been held, according to Anna Giannetti, an office assistant at the Department of Public Works.  The new policy could go into effect as early as January.

Currently, sanitation workers drive down some of the town's longer private driveways to collect waste.  Although residents with shorter driveways probably won't be bothered by the change, it could create a hassle for people who live hundreds of feet away from a public street. 

The change would help reduce manpower needs and potential workers compensation payments from injuries on narrow driveways, Giannetti said.

Town and Village Engineer Robert Wasp said positives in the situation outweigh the negatives.

"There are concerns with injuries and icy driveways," Wasp said. "Plus we are saving time."

Although also not finalized, Giannetti said the town might consider allowing senior citizens to apply for permits that would allow them to side-step the changes.  However, it is too early in the process to know of any final decisions. 

Wasp also said that charging commercial buildings for garbage collection is not out of the question.

A money saving change in the Department of Public Works will probably surprise few in the Harrison area.  The town board approved a 12.9 percent increase in taxes earlier this month, a good indication that the town, like many others in the area, needs to find ways to cut costs.

"In today's times we are asking everyone to put it on the curb,"  Giannetti said.