Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why did the City change residential solid waste service providers?
A: The City is required to conduct a competitive bid process for solid waste services every 7 years. As a result, in March 2024, City Council awarded a contract to Ware Disposal as the lowest bidder for residential trash service. The change in service providers also included a change in billing services, container systems (2-containers to 3-container system), and rates.
Q: I don't agree with the changes, can I return to Athens for trash services?
A: No; The City awarded an exclusive franchise agreement to Ware Disposal for residential trash service. Residents must comply with the Monterey Park Municipal Code requirements for the collection, processing, and disposal of trash.
Q: When does Ware Disposal start service?
A: Ware Disposal's agreement with the City is effective September 1, 2024. However, due to the Labor Day holiday on September 2, 2024, the first day Ware Disposal will collect trash from residential customers is Tuesday, September 3, 2024. Trash collection will be delayed by one day during this week.
Q: Why am I getting three containers?
A: The new trash collection service includes collection of source separated trash, recycling and organic waste. Previously trash and recycling were collected in one container and processed at a Materials Recovery Facility. Since 2022, Senate Bill 1383 requires every jurisdiction in the State of California to provide mandatory organic waste collection services to all residents (including multi-family properties) to divert organic waste (food scraps, food-soiled paper, and green waste) from landfills. The City's program requires residents to have all three bins. If you redeem your recyclables or do not generate high amounts of a particular type of waste, you can request smaller containers to meet your needs.
Q: How can I request a different size container?
A: Requests for cart resizing will be accepted starting December 1, 2024 and cart exchanges will begin January 1, 2025. Senior Citizens and disabled customers may request a cart resizing immediately at the start of our service.
Q: How many containers will a multifamily unit home receive?
A: If a multifamily customer currently has cart service, they will be receiving three 96 gallon carts for trash, recycling, and organics. If a multifamily customer currently has bin (dumpster) service, they will be receiving a bin(s) for trash and at least one 96 gallon cart for recycling and one 64 gallon cart for organics.
Q: How do I request additional containers?
A: Customers with cart service can request additional black, blue, or green containers at a charge. Customers with bin (dumpster) service can request additional trash containers or increase frequency of collection at a charge. Additional blue and green containers for multifamily properties are free of charge. Contact Ware Disposal for service level recommendations or questions on additional charges (See Rate Sheet).
Q: How can I contact Ware Disposal?
A: Ware Disposal has a local office located in Monterey Park. You can call Ware Disposal toll-free at (626) 225-2400 or email to mpinfo@waredisposal.com. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 A.M to 5:00 P.M and Saturday from 8:00 A.M to 12:00 P.M.
Q: Where can I pay my bill?
A: Starting in September 2024, Ware Disposal will bill residential customers on a bi-monthly basis. The City will no longer bill for trash services along with its water bill. Residents can pay their bills electronically at www.waredisposal.com; in person at Ware Disposal’s office or by mail to Ware Disposal, 1111 Corporate Center Dr. Suite 206, Monterey Park, CA 91754.
Q: I have Autopay for my trash bill now, do I need to update my information?
A: Yes, residents' bill for trash services will be separate from their water bill starting September 1, 2024. Customers will need to contact Ware Disposal after September 1, 2024 to enroll in automatic payment.
Q: Will roll-out services still be provided?
A: Roll-out services will continue to be provided free of charge to those eligible for the free service. If you are currently participating in the free roll-out program there is no need to reapply. New customers requesting roll-out services will need to submit an application and required documentation to Ware Disposal.
Q: Is bulky item collection still available?
A: Please consider donating any items that can still be used. For items that cannot be donated or reused, residential and multi-family customers receive free unlimited on-call bulky item collections (including up to four (4) electronic waste collections annually). To schedule a pick up, contact Ware Disposal at 626-225-2400 or via email at mpinfo@waredisposal.com. Place the items curbside on your day of service after receiving confirmation from Ware Disposal.
Q: Will the current collection schedule change?
A: Collection day will remain the same for all residential customers.
Q: Who do I contact for a missing containers or missed pick up?
A: You report missing containers or a missed pickup directly to Ware Disposal at (626) 225-2400 or mpinfo@waredisposal.com.