Bellaire Mayor Praises Waste Collection Crews After Ice Storm

BELLAIRE, TX — The icy roads in town this week put a halt to certain city functions, most notably trash and solid waste pickup. The Bellaire Public Works got back on track faster than most surrounding areas to start collecting and get back on the regular schedule.

It hasn't gone unnoticed by the city council and mayor of Bellaire, who showered praise at the department and its tireless staff. In his blog, Mayor Andrew Friedberg wrote:

"Your city leaders—Council, City Manager, department heads—talk a lot about the high level of services our residents expect, and that we’re committed to providing. Which is as it should be in a premier enclave community. The exceptional effort put forth by our solid waste crews during the cold weather event these past few days is just another great example.

As the Houston area was mostly shut down by icy roads, that and other safety concerns prevented our crews from starting their routes on time. Plus, the landfill was closed, so for the time being there would be nowhere to take our solid waste even if they could collect it. But rather than calling it a day, the crews headed out just as soon as conditions allowed and worked until dark to get as much done as they could. This morning they got an early start, to finish what they couldn’t get to yesterday.

We appreciate our solid waste crews and all city employees for their can-do attitude, positive spirit and willingness to stay late, and in miserable conditions no less. Kudos to each and every one of them. Next time you pass them on the street and exchange a friendly wave, be sure to thank them for all they do."

Photo by David J. Phillip/AP