Snow, holidays delay trash service

FISHERS, Ind. (WISH) - The blizzard of 2012 combined with the holidays has put trash collection on hold. Now, trash cans are lining the streets in communities across Central Indiana, leaving residents wondering when relief will arrive.

"It's a very big inconvenience. Everyone pays dues and they expect service. Trash pickup is paid for by our dues," Judi Donahue said.

Donahue lives in Middleton Place subdivision near 126th Street and State Road 37 in Fishers.

For the first time since Dec. 18, she and other residents had their trash removed Wednesday. Many who live in that Hamilton County community pay a home owners association fee which covers trash removal. Board members with the HOA want Republic Waste to compensate residents for the delayed service.

Republic’s general manager, Barry Pruitt, says he understands the frustration but has no plans to refund customers. Pruitt said crews are still picking up two weeks worth of trash.  Customers who discover trash left behind are encouraged to call Republic.
Those who depend on Ray's Trash Service also experienced delays for the same reason.
The company's general manager, Calvin Davidson, said crews can only do so much.

"We prepare. We started planning for winter many weeks ago. I don't think you can ever prepare enough for the unexpected," Davidson said. "We like to let the snow removal teams do their job so we can do our job safely too. We aren't sending our guys into areas that aren't safe."

Ray's and Republic say all trash should be removed by Saturday.

Wednesday the city of Indianapolis started doubling pick ups for the routes suspended because of the blizzard. Crews will continue their efforts on Thursday.