MACOMB COUNTY, Mich. – Residents in Macomb County have been experiencing issues with trash pickup and priority waste services.
“We’re finding days where they don’t show up. I know my neighbors are not very happy about it. I’m not really happy about it,” said Macomb Township resident Jamie Roe.
“It’s the worst we’ve ever had. I mean you take the garbage out when you’re supposed to and maybe haul it up that day, and maybe they won’t,” said Macomb Township resident Annette Castillo.
Since Priority Waste took over trash hauler services from its predecessor, GFL, in Macomb Township about a year ago, many residents have been dissatisfied.
Township Supervisor Frank Viviano says his office has been receiving nothing but complaints.
“Our residents are angry, and they’re justifiably angry, and we are angry as well. It’s infuriating because we rely on our vendors and our contractors to be partners with us as we service our residents. When they fail, we fail,” said Viviano.
As a result, township officials explored the options for what they could do on Wednesday (July 9) night.
It has been decided that a public hearing will be held on August 13 to gauge the township’s opinion on Priority Waste.
From there, legal action can be taken against the company if the township isn’t satisfied.
Priority Waste could ultimately be subject to liquidated damages, a $500 flat fee, and $35 per resident whose garbage is not picked up on the scheduled pickup day.
Some are hoping it doesn’t have to get to that point.
“If you have an issue, let’s be open about it. If it’s a manpower issue, fix it. If it’s an equipment issue, fix it. You know you’re being paid,” said Macomb Township resident, Michael Koltuniak.
Priority Waste is indeed trying to clean up this mess - sending Local 4 over the following statement:
“Senior management at Priority Waste assured the Macomb Township Supervisor a week ago that the half-day to one-day delay in services would get back to normal. The past 21 days of severe weather incidents, such as a tornado, heat indexes of 105 degrees, and a holiday, have contributed to the delays in services. The delays in service will be resolved by the end of this week. New trucks to replace the old trucks will be placed into service quickly. We appreciate the residents of Macomb Township’s patience and understanding.”
-Priority Waste