The COVID-19 pandemic is finally be winding down, but that hasn’t meant an end to a manpower and womanpower shortage the City of High Point is feeling in its waste collection operations.

On Friday, May 14, just before the close of business, the city announced that bulk waste collection workers will no longer be adhering to the regular pickup schedule.

“Effective immediately, environmental services’ bulk collection will run on a modified schedule due to limited staffing and continued volume increase,” a press release from the city states.

The release left it up in the air as to exactly when residents could expect their bulk waste to be gathered up and hauled away.  The press release from the city added that, as a result of the limited staff and other considerations, “residents’ bulk items may be picked up at a different time or possibly on a different day than typically scheduled.”

So, in that respect, it’s now a lot like the City of Greensboro’s annual yard leaf collection – you really have no idea when they’ll be there.

The good news for High Pointers is that bulk waste collection is the only service that’s being affected at this time.  All other collection services run by the city are operating as usual and residents will be informed if that changes.

City officials are asking all customers to please keep in mind that the Environmental Services Department is doing everything it can to get back to its regular bulk collection schedule.

The press release states, “Environmental services’ priority is providing residents with reliable service, and your patience and understanding are appreciated.”