New Trash Franchise Agreement will Affect City

The city of Santa Clarita has commenced with its new residential trash franchise agreement, meaning that all trash services within city limits will be provided by Waste Management/Blue Barrel.

In an effort to serve the community more efficiently, some homes may have their pickup day changed as a result of the new agreement. For clarification, visit the city website at www.santa-clarita.com for a map of the city with the revised routes.

In most cases, residents can look forward to a rate reduction. Residents will also benefit from free recycling, unlimited free greenwaste collections and more frequent allowances for bulky item pickups, as well as free electronic waste pickups. Residents can check their trash bills for changes and additional services.

For more information, contact Waste Management/Blue Barrel at 259-2398.

Avoid West Nile Virus

To prevent any potential incidents of West Nile Virus, the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District is warning residents to eliminate any standing pools of water that may have collected during recent storms, as these are prime areas for mosquito breeding. Mosquitoes breed in standing water and take only one week to hatch new swarms.

Although West Nile Virus is not contagious or spread person-to-person, humans and animals can contract the illness when they are bitten by mosquitoes that have previously bitten infected birds. This year will mark the fourth year the virus has been present in Southern California.

For more information, request free mosquito-eating fish for placement in areas such as unused swimming pools, spas, birdbaths and ponds, or to request a free inspection, call the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District at 562-944-9656.

City Working to Repair Flood Damage

The 2005 rainy season hit the Santa Clarita Valley with near-record levels of precipitation. These storms caused water-related damage to several areas of the city's extensive trail system, as well as the Lost Canyon Creek Bridge along Newhall Creek and two homes that were demolished to protect the area around Fairgate.

While the city has already spent more than $700,000 to complete emergency flood recovery projects, the city's public works department estimates that a total of $1.8 million will be needed to return to near normalcy.

Repairs are being completed along the Santa Clarita River at Mint Canyon, as well as the North Valencia and South River trails, where part of the trail was washed out. The city expects to see a full restoration of the network of trails and bike paths by October of this year.