Recycling delays in Houston persist due to equipment issues and staffing shortages, but the city is working on solutions.
HOUSTON — Recycling pickup delays continue to frustrate Houston residents, with some neighborhoods experiencing backlogs for months. City officials say they are working to resolve the issues, but caution it may take months before service is fully restored.
The delays are being blamed on a combination of equipment problems and staffing shortages. City Councilman Joaquin Martinez said last week that 13 trucks were out of service and noted the disruption from a recent holiday.
Mayor John Whitmire told KHOU 11 that a new director for Solid Waste Management was appointed two months ago and is already taking steps to improve operations.
“We’re reexamining the entire solid waste department with a new director, and you’ll see results very quickly,” Whitmire said.
Councilwoman Tiffany D. Thomas, who represents District F, also acknowledged the ongoing frustrations but urged residents to remain patient.
“However, we also have trucks that are down,” Thomas said. “They are mitigating that and so just be patient. It is very frustrating, but be patient with recycling. And trash 311 is aware. Solid waste is aware. Our offices are aware.”
The city reports that 46 collection trucks are currently inoperable, but officials have purchased 34 new trucks in an effort to boost service capacity.
For residents seeking immediate solutions, one of six recycling centers across the city is available for drop-offs from Wednesday to Sunday, between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m.