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Trash Pick-Up Changes in San Diego This Week

Trash Pick-Up Changes in San Diego This Week
If you live in the city of San Diego the sound of the garbage truck may come sooner or later than you're used to beginning this week. The move is intended to save the city money.

If you live in the City of San Diego the sound of the garbage truck may come sooner or later than you're used to beginning this week. The move is intended to save the city money.

Because of the 1919 People's Ordinance, the City of San Diego does not charge residents for trash collection.

Chris Gonaver with the city's Environmental Services Department said it's likely that won't change anytime soon.

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"It is part of the municipal code however it was put in place by a vote of the public," said Gonaver. "So in order to change that it would need to go to a vote of the public here in the city of San Diego."

Since no vote is expected in the near future, the city is trying to save money on trash collection.

Gonaver said the city has cut 40 drivers and redesigned pickup routes to save $4.4 million.

He said the days of trash pick-up won't change but the time may vary because drivers now work four 10-hour shifts each week.

"We're going to be starting on our routes earlier," said Gonaver. "So typically we're on the routes now by 7 a.m. We're asking residents to put their containers out by 6 a.m. Because we will be in the neighborhoods beginning at about 6:30 a.m."

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He said recycling will be collected on the same days as trash in the city of San Diego, but the designated weeks may change.

Collection will continue to be delayed by one day following six holidays including Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas.

A big decision awaits some voters this April as the race for San Diego County’s Supervisor District 1 seat heats up. Are you ready to vote? Check out the KPBS Voter Hub to learn about the candidates, the key issues the board is facing and how you can make your voice heard.