Residents of 328-unit complex ask San Mateo to intervene with Recology over bulky-item pickup shortfall

A representative of the board for a large condominium complex asked the City Council on Monday to help resolve what she described as an ongoing shortfall in bulky-item pickup service provided by Recology.

Astrid Vardaresian, speaking for the Bridal Homeowners Association and describing the complex (Loridale) as a 328-unit condominium property on George Avenue, said the association had followed Recology guidance for twice-yearly bulky-item pickups but that Recology supplied only two 15-cubic-yard bins (replaced once during the week) when the normal entitlement for single-family San Mateo households would total 656 cubic yards for 328 units. “Instead, Recology provides us with 2 15 cubic yard bins replaced once during a week that amounts to a total of 60 cubic yards or 1 tenth of the allotted amount for other San Mateo residents,” Vardaresian said, adding that the company had been dismissive when association leaders raised the issue.

Vardaresian said attempts to work with Recology’s binned-pickup coordinator and area supervisor produced rude or unreturned communications despite the association paying nearly $150,000 annually for garbage service. She asked the council to connect her with someone who could compel Recology to provide the service level due to San Mateo residents.

Staff response: The mayor and staff said the council had received the association’s email and that staff would follow up with the district representative who covers that area. “We're in receipt of the email and staff will follow-up,” the mayor said during the meeting’s public-comment response.

Ending: The association representative provided contact information and said she would resend it; staff committed to follow up. The matter was raised during public comment and no formal council action was taken at the meeting.