Staten Island Resident Seeks Answers on Missing Trash Bin Order

In a puzzling situation, a Staten Island resident is left without answers regarding a trash bin order placed with the city several months ago. Michael Monopoli, a 76-year-old resident, ordered the bin on October 23, 2023, through the NYC Department of Sanitation’s call center, but as of now, it has yet to be delivered. Frustrated by the lack of information, Monopoli has reached out to various sources without success.

Monopoli’s troubles began shortly after he made his purchase, which was part of a new initiative in New York City aimed at improving sanitation practices. He initially received a promise that the bin would be delivered by the end of November. However, as December drew to a close, he found himself still waiting and unable to obtain any updates.

He explained, “I don’t know why I can’t find out about my garbage pail, or get the money that’s due to me.” In his attempts to gather information, Monopoli discovered that both the website for the NYC Bins program and the call center he once relied upon were no longer operational. He noted, “Both their call center was closed down and the page online was closed down in reference to these garbage cans.”

While the NYC Bins webpage remains accessible, it now features a message indicating that online ordering and the call center are temporarily unavailable. It does, however, suggest that select NYC bins are available at various Home Depot locations throughout the city. Monopoli has expressed concerns that he may not be the only resident facing this issue.

In a further effort to resolve the situation, he contacted the local Sanitation Department garage, hoping to find someone who could provide clarity. According to Monopoli, the employee he spoke with confirmed that multiple residents have reported similar problems. “The gentleman I spoke to said, ‘You know what? You’re not the first person who called about this,’” Monopoli recalled.

Despite his persistent attempts, Monopoli has not received any information from the manufacturer of the bins regarding a potential refund. He speculated that his bin may never have been delivered, as he has not received the School Tax Relief rebate that other homeowners received after purchasing a bin. “If there’s no refund check, that’s pretty much a good sign that the trash can was never dropped off,” he explained.

When approached for comment, a spokesperson for the NYC Department of Sanitation stated that the vendor responsible for the bins will issue a full refund to Monopoli. The spokesperson further clarified that the vendor’s call center is not closed permanently but is temporarily offline, and efforts are underway to restore its functionality. Importantly, the spokesperson noted that the trash bin program is managed by an external vendor, meaning the city does not handle the manufacturing, sales, or delivery of the bins.

New Trash Bin Requirements in NYC

The initiative mandating new trash bins was introduced under former Mayor Eric Adams, who has implemented significant changes to the city’s sanitation policies in an effort to combat the ongoing rat problem. The new regulations require trash containers to be 55 gallons or smaller and equipped with secure lids. These bins, including those produced by the North Carolina-based company Otto, feature latching lids, wheels, and a metal bar designed for mechanized collection, backed by a ten-year warranty.

Although the city has outlined these requirements, full implementation will not occur until June 2026. Until that time, residents in buildings with fewer than ten units can continue to use any bins that have secure lids, providing some flexibility as the transition unfolds.

As Monopoli continues to seek answers, he represents a growing number of residents navigating the complexities of the new trash bin program in New York City. With the city’s efforts to improve sanitation ongoing, the challenges faced by individuals like him highlight the need for clear communication and responsive customer service in municipal initiatives.