In addition to the normal collection, next year, Republic will collect five additional leave collections. CINDY HOFFMAN/BAYSIDE GAZETTE

By Cindy Hoffman, Staff Writer

(Dec. 21, 2023) Trash, recycling and leaves will continue to be picked up by Republic Services in Ocean Pines for another three years.

Republic Services was not the lowest bid, but came close, according to General Manager John Viola.  Thought was given to changing from a twice to once a week collection, but there was no financial benefit to do so.

With a new contract will come new trash cans for residents at no additional cost. The trash cans will allow the use of an electronic arm to pick up and dump the trash, making it safer for sanitation workers. Those who continue to put out trash in bags or other containers will still have their trash picked up but residents are encouraged to use the new bins.

In addition to the current service, Republic will schedule five additional leaf pickups throughout the year. This will not replace the pickups done by Ocean Pines.

The cost of the service could go up 15 percent during the life of the three year-contract, which would amount to about $4 in cost for each resident.

“I don’t think it is a bad deal,” Viola said.

Residents are reminded that leaves raked to the street will not be picked up by Ocean Pines or Republic. All leaves must be bagged for pickup. Violations will be issued to those who rake their leaves to the road.