Fall 2018 Leaf Collection Program set to begin

The city of Elyria’s Fall 2018 Leaf Collection Program will take place from Oct. 22 to Dec. 1.

Leaves should be raked to the curb in piles, but not in the street, according to a news release.

Crews will cover the entire city and concentrate first on areas with mature trees.

There is no set schedule for collection, as weather conditions, equipment and personnel fluctuate day-today, the release said.

No brush, twigs or other materials should be mixed with the leaves, as these items may cause safety hazards and will clog the vacuum equipment, slowing the collection process, the release said.

A special service will again be provided this year if senior citizens are unable to rake their leaves because of an illness or physical disability.

Seniors are eligible to sign up for a free raking service by calling the Mayor’s Office Leaf Program Hotline at 440-326-1415 by Nov. 2, according to the release.

This service is being made possible through the generosity of student volunteers from Elyria High School and Elyria Catholic High School, the release said.

Keenan Williams, assistant manager of the Elyria Street Department, has worked with the schools to coordinate the effort.

The first 50 senior citizens to sign up are eligible for the service, the release said.

The city asks for residents’ patience and understanding.

Regardless of the weather, no leaves will be collected after Dec. 1, the release said.

Any leaves remaining on the curb lawn after Dec. 1 must be bagged in brown bags only and left with the weekly trash pick-up.

Free brown compost bags are available at the Mayor’s Office or the Public Utilities Office, 131 Court St.

Residents are encouraged to dispose of their leaves at the Elyria Compost Center, 45 Chestnut St.

Barnes Nursery manages the Compost Center.

Details regarding the hours of operation and services can be found on the city’s website under the Sanitation Department at www.cityofelyria.org.

Leaves collected by crews are composted and not dumped into area landfills.

It’s encouraged to remember these important safety tips: do not allow children to play in the leaves near the street or curb; do not place branches or other debris in the leaf piles, because doing so, may result in the non collection of leaves; and do not park vehicles on or near leaf piles.