Severn residents will have to adapt to a new waste collection schedule now that the County of Simcoe has switched to an automated cart system.
Starting Nov. 2, garbage day in Severn will be Tuesday instead of Wednesday.
The township had hoped to see collection happen on Mondays in certain areas.
“While we recognize that a great amount of work goes into planning for the new waste collection system, it is requested that the township’s seasonal areas, particularly the northern seasonal areas near Port Severn and Severn Falls, be serviced on Mondays in the future,” staff wrote.
The county did not grant that request.
Council was especially concerned about seasonal residences as many leave their cottages on Sundays, putting their waste out for collection before they leave.
Some are concerned “the bears are going to get at it,” said Mayor Mike Burkett.
“I feel for them,” he said, but added, “If they recycle properly and there’s no food in the bins, why would the bears get into those bins?”
Deputy Mayor Jane Dunlop noted the county has some bear bins that can be provided to residents, but they have to pass the smell test and prove they’re disposing of their waste in proper ways.
There have been some issues with bears in the township, Dunlop said. Some people will camp on Crown land and leave their trash behind. Once the bears are done with that, they will head to nearby residences.
“Please take your garbage with you,” she said.
She and Burkett urged residents to be patient.
Anyone with questions or concerns about waste collection or bear bins can contact Service Simcoe at 705-735-6901 or [email protected].
Dunlop also encourages people to download the Simcoe County Collects app.
More information about the new automated cart collection can be found here.
