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1. How is this message being delivered to residents?

• The program was presented with an opportunity for public comment at the September 3 City Council meeting, which was recorded and available for viewing on the City’s YouTube channel.
• A link to more information, highlighted by a waving trash can, is on the CIty’s homepage.
• An email / text / phone blast will be sent to all residents who have signed up for “Notify Me.”
• Informational flyers will be included on each cart.
• An explanation of the program and links to the explanation page on the website will be posted on social media.
• Notices will be placed on the signs at Lightfoot, the Library and the Family Rec Complex.
• The TTPD’s electronic signs with the message “Use of New Garbage Carts Begins (TBD). For info, call 813.506.6570” will be rotated throughout the City where allowed. 
• Notices will be run on the City’s cable channel.
• An brief explanation of the program and resources for more information will be available on the City’s Infoline at 813.506.6644.*
• Questions can be directed to the City’s Marketing and Communications Officer at 813.506.6404 or via email to lhayes@templeterrace.com.
• An alert about upcoming delivery of the carts will be placed in the City’s Utility bill.

*Residents can call a new phone line that connects callers to a recorded message of important City news and alerts. The message will be updated by the City’s Marketing and Communications Officer as needed. (Note that the line will not be staffed, nor will there be an option to leave a message.) Dial 813.506.6644 to hear the message.

2. Why is this change necessary?

A switch to a semi-automated trash collection system in the City of Temple Terrace is long overdue. The vast majority of communities in the Tampa Bay region and, indeed, in the country have already made the transition. The new system has been shown to save time as well as reduce the possibility of injury to the sanitation crews. In addition, the uniform look of the carts will contribute greatly to the aesthetics on City streets, even on trash days. In addition, the lids attached to the carts will close after being serviced, unlike loose lids which often end up clogging storm drains.

3. How much is this costing the City?

The cost to retrofit the residential sanitation fleet with cart tippers will cost $68,322, the expenditure for which was approved on August 4, 2020 by the City Council.  The cost of the carts is $300,000 and will be paid for using funds originally designated for a new garbage truck in the 2020-’21 City budget. These carts come with a 10 year warranty-under normal use conditions.

4. Will this result in a cost increase for residential sanitation service?

No. The switch to semi-automation will not result in an increase in fees.