Neighbors upset over delayed trash pickup in Lehigh Acres

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LEHIGH ACRES, Fla. – A new garbage collecting system in east Lee County has been causing some problems for parts of Lehigh Acres. Overflowing trash bins, swarming bugs, and a foul odor are infesting some neighborhoods.

“I put these trash cans out and they sit out and they sit out,” Pat Hofer said.

“You just can’t leave garbage out in the street that long,” Frank Delmonaco said.

People who live in Lehigh Acres say the issue started at the beginning of October when they were notified a program would be put in place to collect garbage. They were told recycling and garbage would be picked up on the same day, but neighbors say both bins are left out for days.
“This is going on over 24 hours. I put them out yesterday morning and here it is a day and a half later and they’re still sitting out here,” Michael Bond said. “The last time I had to rinse it out afterwards because the sun doesn’t make it very nice either.”

Lee County officials say they are working with the trash collector to fine-tune the route to avoid any delays.

Residents say the trash cans have become an eyesore for their neighborhood, and it’s not just the smell they’re worried about.

“The problem is, this is Lehigh Acres and you get the raccoons and I’m sure they’re picking right up on it. I’ve seen a few cans that have been knocked over,” said Bond.

“It’s going to draw rats and things and I think it’s a health hazard.”

Lee County says an inspector is also out in the field working to find any problem areas. If you are having an issue with your trash being collected on time, you can call 239-533-8000 or visit Lee County’s garbage collection changes page.

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