Key Takeaways:
- The city of Milton has implemented a new initiative called "Routeware" to improve trash collection efficiency and reduce costs.
- The system uses iPads with software to document missed garbage pickups and reduce unnecessary return trips.
- The city estimates the program will save at least $20,000 in taxpayer dollars per year.
- The upfront cost of the system was $8,000, with an annual maintenance cost of $3,000.
- The program aims to reduce overtime, fuel, and vehicle maintenance costs for the city.
Introduction to the Problem
The city of Milton, Florida, has been facing concerns over trash pickup, with residents and workers alike experiencing frustration with the current system. To address these issues, the city ran a trial run of a new initiative in November and fully implemented it in December. The new system, called "Routeware," aims to improve efficiency and reduce costs associated with trash collection. With the new system in place, Milton residents have two designated days a week to put their garbage on the curb for collection. However, some residents have been putting out their trash after the collection truck has passed, causing concerns for sanitation workers.
The Concerns of Sanitation Workers
Sanitation workers like Rashad Tart have been experiencing issues with residents putting out their trash after the collection truck has come through. This has led to missed garbage pickups and additional work for the workers, who often have to turn around and make a second loop to collect the trash. Tart expressed his frustration, stating that he and his colleagues would receive work orders for missed garbage, making it seem like they were not doing their job. However, the reality is that the trash was not out when they made their initial pass. This has resulted in extra trips to the county landfill, costing the city more money.
The Solution: Routeware
To address these concerns, the city of Milton has implemented the Routeware system. Sanitation workers now carry iPads with the Routeware software during pickup, which allows them to document missed garbage pickups by taking photos. If a resident does not set their trash can out for collection, the worker will take a photo for documentation, but they will not return to pick it up that day. The goal of the system is to cut costs associated with overtime, fuel, and vehicle maintenance. By reducing the number of return trips, the city hopes to save a significant amount of money.
Expected Savings
City staff estimate that the Routeware system will save the city at least $20,000 in taxpayer dollars per year. The upfront cost of the system was $8,000, and the annual maintenance cost will be $3,000. While the initial cost may seem significant, the potential savings far outweigh the expense. In fact, staff believe that the savings could be even more by the end of the year. The system is expected to have a positive impact on the community, reducing waste and improving the efficiency of trash collection.
Implementation and Future Plans
The Routeware system is currently being used manually, with drivers taking photos of missed garbage pickups. However, in a few weeks, the city will install dash cameras that will constantly roll during collection. This will help to reduce documentation time and improve the efficiency of the system. The city is optimistic about the potential benefits of the Routeware system and believes it will have a positive impact on the community. With the new system in place, residents are encouraged to put their trash out on the designated collection days to ensure that it is picked up in a timely and efficient manner.
Conclusion
The implementation of the Routeware system in Milton, Florida, is a significant step towards improving trash collection efficiency and reducing costs. By documenting missed garbage pickups and reducing unnecessary return trips, the city hopes to save a significant amount of money. With the potential to save at least $20,000 in taxpayer dollars per year, the system is a valuable investment for the city. As the system continues to be refined and improved, it is likely to have a positive impact on the community, reducing waste and improving the overall quality of life for residents.