In a recent joint meeting of Toledo's Housing & Community Development Committee and the Mobility, Sustainability & Beautification Committee, pressing concerns about trash collection and community cleanliness took center stage. The meeting, held on August 7, 2025, highlighted the growing issue of blight in the city, particularly the increase in bulk trash set-outs.

Council members expressed alarm over the rising number of garbage piles reported in various districts. One council member noted a significant uptick in complaints, with recorded instances of bulk trash rising from 594 in March to 692 in May. This trend has raised concerns about the effectiveness of the current waste management system, especially as many of these piles remain unaddressed for weeks.

Rochelle Bowen, the municipal sales manager for Republic Services, and Anujit Barwa, the new general manager, attended the meeting to address these issues. They acknowledged the challenges faced by the waste management team, particularly in light of recent operational disruptions. Barwa emphasized the importance of open communication and responsiveness to community concerns.

Council members voiced frustration over the ongoing nature of these discussions, with one member highlighting that similar complaints have persisted for five years. The impact of trash accumulation on community events, such as family gatherings during holidays, was also noted, as residents expressed disappointment at having to navigate around garbage during festive occasions.

The meeting underscored the need for improved coordination between the city and waste management services to ensure that issues do not fall through the cracks. As Toledo continues to grapple with these challenges, the discussions aim to foster a cleaner, more welcoming environment for all residents. The committees plan to follow up on these concerns to enhance community cleanliness and address the rising blight effectively.