DeKalb County, GA — As DeKalb County continues to struggle with sanitation service due to workers sidelined by COVID-19, county leaders have pledged to work through the weekend to pick up recycling and yard trimmings at any homes that have been missed.

“Due to significant COVID-19-related staffing challenges within its residential collection team, the DeKalb County Sanitation Division is currently experiencing service delays for recycling and yard trimmings,” a press release from the county says. “Sanitation crews will work through the weekend to ensure all recycling and yard trimmings are collected.”

The city of Tucker on Tuesday, Jan. 4, warned residents that recycling and yard trimmings pickup might be disrupted in the coming weeks.

“Our partners at DeKalb Sanitation have let us know that they are experiencing staff shortages, that could impact service over the next few weeks,” the city announced in a Facebook post. “For the time being, they will prioritize garbage collection and will address recycling and yard trimmings as they are able. Thank you for your patience!”

Recently, the county confirmed that it has experienced staffing issues created by the surge in COVID-19 cases.

“Because sanitation crews must work in cold and inclement weather, they are more susceptible to respiratory illnesses due to decreased resistance,” the press release from the county says.

The county is asking residents of missed homes to leave their recycling and yard trimmings at the curb.

“The Sanitation Division apologizes for any inconvenience and appreciates residents’ patience as collection teams work toward completing scheduled service while ensuring the safety of all employees,” the press release from the county says. “For more information on services offered by the Sanitation Division, contact the Customer Care team at 404-294-2900 or [email protected], visit www.dekalbsanitation.com, or follow the Sanitation Division on Twitter @DKalbSanitation.”

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