Reporting debris, company hiring for crews, and individual help

Since the storm, Macon-Bibb Solid Waste & Advanced Disposal have continued to collect garbage, recycling, containerized yard waste (leaves and pine straw in bags, for example), and up to two cubic yards of bulky yard waste (branched and limbs). More than 500 tons of storm debris (not including garbage and recycling) have already been collected, but the full cleanup is expected to take several weeks. There are an estimated 35,000-40,000 cubic yards, or more of debris to be collected because of the storm.

Macon-Bibb County has selected companies to manage the collection and disposal of debris from Tropical Storm Irma. That work should begin within the next week or two, upon approval by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and with signed contracts. Once the work begins, crews will focus first on the hardest hit areas – like Shirley Hills, the Ingleside and Overlook areas, Bloomfield neighborhoods, and neighborhoods near Riverside Drive – before beginning sweeps of the entire county.

Debris Pile Reporting

To help speed up collections and allow the contractors to focus on areas where there is significant debris to be collected, people can report a curbside pile of debris directly to the crews using SeeClickFix. This information will be plotted on a map for crews to best plan their routes. Crews will still be traveling the streets picking up the piles, whether it’s reported or not; this reporting will allow us to focus first on the hardest hit areas.

To submit the location of a debris pile, go to www.maconbibb.us/seeclickfix or use the free mobile app on a smartphone. Select “Irma Debris Removal” at the top of the list and answer a few short questions. If a person does not have internet, they can contact the Solid Waste Department at 478-803-0499 or Customer Service at 751-7400 to have their information added to the system.

Debris placed curbside should be placed in separate piles based on the type of material. Attached/below is a graphic that outlines how those piles should be divided, as well as other tips.

Contractors Hiring for Crews

DebrisTech, the company hired to perform debris monitoring services, is hiring people to serve as Field Debris Monitors and is certifying the trucks and equipment that will be used. That way, their crews are ready as soon as collection can begin.

This will be a temporary position that could last up to three months, or as long as it takes to clear the debris in Macon-Bibb. Field Debris Monitors will be paid $12 per hour, and will work 12-14 hour days and up to seven days per week. All hours over 40 in one week will be paid at time and a half. Training for the job will be provided for people hired.

For hiring requirements, click here, and to apply, call 478-292-7771.

United Way Helping Individuals Needing Assistance

As we get farther away from the day of the storm, emergency management officials, say what develops is the “unmet needs gap.” People start understanding next steps in recovery, such as expensive tree removal or replenishing low food supplies, but don’t know where to turn. Meanwhile good Samaritans want to lend a hand chopping up downed trees or providing resources to victims, but lack a way to get the word out.

• The United Way of Central Georgia (UWCG) has channels open for people to request assistance or to volunteer services as the clean-up after Tropical Storm Irma continues.  • Those seeking help such as debris removal or food pantry should text IRMA6 to 898211, which will direct you to assistance.
• For debris removal that can be done by volunteers call 478-621-7814
• Those willing to assist should CLICK NOW and signup as a volunteer or call 478-621-7812.
• For all other needs not related to Irma text your Zip Code and Need to 898211.  People also may reach the communities Information and Referral service by dialing 1-866-680-8924

• To make a cash donation to help with local Irma efforts, please visit our website, and click DONATE at the top of the page. Once you are there, make sure to designate your gift for Irma Relief. “We want to match people’s generosity and resources with people who have a need of assistance in clearing their yards of debris,” says United Way Vice President of Community Engagement Lynda Brown.