Debris Pickup Program Is Extended

The Los Angeles Board of Public Works on Friday extended the city’s free earthquake-debris pickup program until Sept. 30 after residents complained that an earlier deadline would not give them enough time to do cleanup work.

The free service was to have expired June 30.

After hearing complaints from dozens of angry constituents, Councilwoman Laura Chick wrote a letter to the board asking for an extension, said Karen Costine, a Chick aide.

“The problem expressed by callers is that it is becoming harder and harder to find licensed contractors who can start immediately,” Chick wrote. “Some contractors are advising their clients to wait six months until the aftershocks have stopped, while others are not willing to commit to begin jobs until summer since they are so busy.”

About 40,000 tons of material has been collected by city crews since the quake, nearly three-quarters of which has been recycled, according to the Department of Public Works.

Residents seeking more information about the service or wishing to make an appointment for a pickup should call the Department of Sanitation at (818) 898-8121, Ext. 78811.