County implements appointment system for collection events

WILL COUNTY – In an effort to shorten lines and wait times, the Resource Recovery and Energy Division of the Will County Land Use Department has implemented an appointment system for its collection events.

Will County Executive Larry Walsh said, “We want to make recycling as easy as possible for our residents. In the past, people sometimes waited in line for up to two hours or more at some events. This new system should alleviate that wait.”

The appointment system has been rolled out for the event from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, March 24, in Peotone. Appointments are offered on a first-come, first served basis in 15-minute time slots with the last appointments of the day at 2:45 p.m. Participants will receive an electronic event reminder a day or two in advance.

Marta Keane, the county’s Recycling Specialist, said, “We spoke to representatives of other counties that have experienced large event turnouts and switched to appointment systems. Each one reported improvements in wait times, satisfaction from participants that could schedule their day more easily and improved planning for staffing by the county and its event vendor.

“The time it will take to unload each vehicle will depend upon the amount of recyclables that’s in it,” she continued. “That means we can’t guarantee to get every person in and out in 15 minutes, but we’re certain that it will take less time than an unpredictable long line.”

There will also be a collection event from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, April 21, in Joliet. Appointments are already available for that event, too.

Both upcoming events will accept household hazardous wastes, motor oil and electronics. They are open to people living in communities wholly or partially in Will County. There is a two-television limit, and participants will have to provide photo identification before dropping off items.

To set up an appointment, go to www.willcountygreen.com and follow the prompts.  Those without internet access may call (815) 727-8834 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. weekdays.

Additional information about what items will be collected at the events, as well as more information about the Land Use Department, can also be found at www.willcountygreen.com.

There will be another collection event scheduled for later in the spring. Check www.willcountygreen.com in the coming months for more details.