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Detroit Trash Collection Delayed; Planned Privatization To Blame

DETROIT (AP) -  A Detroit official says the planned privatization of trash collection has some city employees skipping work and leaving pickup services behind schedule.

In a statement Sunday, Department of Public Works Director Ron Brundidge says trash collection is about two days behind.

That's in part because of extra bulk trash and yard waste that comes this time of year. But Brundidge says there's also been a slowdown due to some workers staying home.

According to Brundidge, the city has been bringing in crews from a private contractor during the weekend to help.

MLive.com reports Detroit plans to have two private contractors take over trash collection and add curbside recycling in a move expected to save $6 million a year. The privatized services are expected to take full effect by June.

Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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