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The Department of Public Works (DPW) announced this fall that it has launched a free app & website plug-in that contains information people need to know about residential garbage and recycling services. The information is tailored specifically to neighborhoods. The free app & website plug-in, developed by my-waste™, provides residents with a full range of information that is normally on the website or in the collection schedule that the DPW distributes yearly. By downloading the ‘my-waste’ app or creating an account, Natick residents can check details for regular and special collections and receive relevant news alerts, such as delayed/re-scheduled collections.
The Natick app & website plug-in also includes a “report-a-problem” function that allows residents to report non-emergency sanitation problems, like missed collections, illegal dumping, and overflowing public garbage or recycling bins. The report-a-problem feature uses the smartphone’s GPS positioning system and built in camera.
The website plug-in gives residents a choice to download and install the application on a smartphone or tablet or create an account and receive email/text/voice mail reminders and alerts. Residents may print custom collection schedules and export schedules to Outlook, iCal and Google Calendar; adjust settings to provide themselves with only the information they need via the contact method of their choice; and receive weekly reminders for regular collection programs or only alerts just for special events, such as household hazardous or yard waste collection days.
The app is an additional way for the DPW to connect with residents about its resource recovery and waste diversion programs. The information on the app & website plug-in will be updated regularly as necessary during the year, so it will always be current. The DPW will continue to distribute printed materials and have information on the website for residents who prefer traditional promotional and educational materials.