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The Syracuse Common Council has decided to delay fines for residents who improperly set out their trash and recycling. Initially, the city planned to start issuing fines in early January, but the council voted to extend the moratorium on penalties by an additional 90 days. This decision follows the distribution of new 96-gallon recycling carts in October, which came with a three-month suspension of fines.
Councilor Pat Hogan, who introduced the proposal for the extension, emphasized the need for more public education on the new system. Councilor Amir Gethers, chair of the Public Works Committee, echoed these concerns, especially with the holiday season generating extra waste. Despite the council's decision, the Walsh administration did not support the extension, citing a high compliance rate of 98.98% in the first week of potential fines, with only 12 fines issued out of 67,100 pickups.
The new recycling carts replaced smaller bins and changed the collection schedule to biweekly. The city also adjusted pickup routes for about 25% of households. Residents are encouraged to review the rules at syr.gov/carts to avoid fines once the moratorium ends. The council may shorten the extension if they are satisfied with the program’s educational efforts.