The current method of nighttime trash pickup has led to numerous issues, including excessive trash spillage, inefficient collection, and noise pollution. We, the undersigned residents of Erie, PA, are calling for urgent improvements to the city’s waste collection system that will benefit both residents and sanitation workers.  

 Key Issues & Why Change Is Needed

 1. Lack of Proper Trash Bins 
Erie still relies on loose bag collection instead of standardized bins, which increases litter, attracts animals, and makes collection more difficult.  
- Cities with standardized bins have cleaner streets, less spillage, and more efficient pickup.  
- Implementing a bin system would make trash collection faster and reduce labor-intensive handling.  It would also prevent animals from ripping open bags.

2. Trash Spillage & Litter Problems
Without proper bins and equipment, loose trash is often left behind or spills into streets, contributing to neighborhood cleanliness issues.  
- Wind, snow, rain, and animals frequently spread uncollected garbage, leading to increased maintenance costs for the city and homeowners.  
- Spilled trash can lead to environmental hazards that threatens the local ecosystem and Lake Erie, our fresh water source. 

3. Noise & Quality of Life Disruptions
Late-night collection creates excessive noise, disturbing residents' sleep and lowering quality of life.  
- A shift to early morning collection would reduce nighttime disturbances while still avoiding heavy traffic. 
- Additionally, graveyard shifts are linked to negative health outcomes, including increased risks of heart disease, fatigue, and long-term sleep disorders. Switching to daytime collection would improve worker health and safety.

Acknowledging Progress: Electric Truck Upgrades

We recognize and appreciate the City of Erie’s investment in electric refuse trucks through the $3.12 million PA Driving Forward grant. This is an important step toward sustainability and modernization. However, new trucks alone won’t solve the core issues of trash spillage, inefficiency, and late-night disruptions.

**Our Proposed Solutions**  
To fully modernize Erie’s waste collection system, we urge the city to pair these truck upgrades with: 
1. Implement a standardized trash bin system to replace the loose bag method.  
2.  Shift trash collection to early morning hours (e.g., 6 AM - 2 PM) to reduce noise disturbances while maintaining efficiency.  Switching to daytime collection would also improve sanitation worker health and safety.

Without additional changes, Erie will continue to face the same waste management challenges despite the investment in new vehicles. Let’s make this upgrade count by implementing a truly modern, effective system. By signing this petition, you are voicing your support for a cleaner, safer, and more modernized waste collection system in Erie.   

Sign below to demand change!