Recently, the Solid Waste Management Division of Denver delivered new garbage cans to many unsuspecting Denver residents. The new cans are similar to the recycle cans, and the massive effort is an attempt to reduce the labor intensive job of trash pickup, and create a more automated process. Residents had been asked to request either a small, medium, or large bin. For the many who did not respond, the default was the medium-sized bin. The change appears to be a good idea, and may even encourage people to recycle more or consider composting. The problem for many Stapleton residents is, there just seems to be a lot of trash here. “The first pick up week did not go well,” said resident Dave Noelting. “I thought the can we had would be big enough, but I forgot how much we overflow the two trash cans I normally set out. Plus, we usually have extra bags we set around those cans, and that has never been a problem. This change is going to affect our lifestyle.” Other residents worry about holidays. “What is going to happen after Christmas,” asks Amy Penny. “We normally have ten big bags out there the next week. Now what?” The new trash cans and rules present a problem, because like the recycle bins, you are supposed to have them closed, meaning you can’t just pile things on top like the good ‘ol days. “I have always loved Denver trash pickup since I moved here 15 years ago,” said resident Chris Wallace. “You could put anything out there, and sure enough, they would take it. It was really great. This new process seems to be a complete 180 from what I have grown accustomed to.” The new trash pickup rules will dictate changes for Stapleton residents. “I think we are going to have to start eating out a lot more,” said Stapleton resident Adam Halsor. “Probably four times a week. I mean that medium sized can does not hold enough trash for a family of five.” Dave Potter says he and his family may start taking more vacations. “We may have to spend more time at our place in the mountains,” said Potter. “Or, even take other short weekend trips just to avoid collecting more trash.” Other residents plan to make changes as well. “I might have to start really looking at that recycling list to see what I can shift that direction,” said Eastbridge resident Julia Gill. “But, the truth is, that thing is pretty full of empty boxes and wine and beer cans and bottles. Oh no! Do I have to start drinking less? Do I have to stop ordering so many things from Overstock and Amazon, or just reduce my online shopping overall? This garbage situation could really end up screwing up my life.” Before you stop buying alcohol, Bradley Sifers, head of Denver’s Solid Waste Management division, says there are other options. “Residents should remember that we do have an extra trash service day,” said Sifers. “Once a month, we will pick up up to ten extra bags and five large items. So, as long as you don’t mind old trash stinking and rotting in your garage, it’s really no big deal.” Sifers also recommends communities work together. “Ask your neighbors if their can is full. See if you can put a little something in their can, and next time, they can shove something in your can. We just need to all work together.” Stapleton residents may not be too excited about sharing their cans or having to wait until extra trash pickup day. But, without a lot of options, looks like that extra trash pickup day could become huge in Stapleton. #StapletonPeopleProblems.]]>