Switch To Robo-Cans Will Save Berkeley Money, Mayor Says

BERKELEY, NJ — A switch to robo-cans for garbage pickup in Berkeley's senior communities will help the township save time and money, according to Mayor John Bacchione.

Bacchione explained the benefits of automated trash collection at a recent Township Council meeting, where a bond ordinance was introduced to fund the purchase of these robo-cans.

Much of the township's workman's compensation claims come from the sanitation department, Bacchione said.

"And rightfully so. I mean, these guys are picking up these heavy cans every day and getting hurt getting on and off these trucks," Bacchione said. The robo-cans will eliminate the two workers who ride on the back of those trucks, he said.

But no jobs will be lost due to the change, Bacchione emphasized. Instead, workers will be relocated into other areas.

"I mean, they're not going to lose their jobs. We're understaffed now. We don't need to lose anybody over there," Bacchione said.

Also, the amount of trucks on the street each week will be reduced, saving fuel and time, Bacchione said.

Bachcione said he spoke at the town's senior communities and received positive feedback.

"There's a number of reasons why we're doing this," he said. "The main reason is to save money, to try to keep the taxes as low as possible."

More details about the robo-can switch can be found here.