Last year, the township picked up “street trees“; this year, they won’t. But they are making it easier to dispose of the debris. The following letter was sent to residents this morning:
Dear Resident:
The recent storms have inflicted substantial damage to the tree canopy in Bernards Township. As a result, the Township Committee has expanded the use of our Pill Hill Recycling Facility to include weekdays 7:30 am – 3:30 pm until November 30th, 2012, excluding November 22 & 23rd which will be closed for Thanksgiving. This is in addition to Saturdays 8:00 am – 4:00 pm and Sundays 8:00 am – 4:00 pm. Weekday use is limited to vegetative refuse only, and not bulky waste.
Please be aware, the Township will NOT be picking up curbside debris and therefore, encourages you to follow the above provisions and refrain from placing vegetative debris in the public right of way, sidewalk or roadway. This includes all debris regardless of its origination (private property, right of way, public property).
We recognize that some of the vegetative debris is too large and may require professional tree companies to transport. We have therefore instructed staff to allow access to commercial tree vehicles given that the resident either accompanies the contractor with identification or the contractor present a copy of your invoice with your identification clearly shown on the copy.
While we appreciate the enormous undertaking in removal of this wood waste from residents’ yards, we ask that sidewalks and roadways be a priority as you clear your debris. The Township understands that some removal on lawn areas not impacting traffic or pedestrians may take time to clear. As such, the Township will allow reasonable time for clean up before enforcement penalties kick in, unless public safety is jeopardized.
Your understanding and cooperation in this matter will be appreciated by your neighbors as well as the general public and contribute to the betterment of Bernards Township.
Very truly yours,
Bernards Township Department of Public Works
