Nix took the stage and outlined the extensive research that led to determining which alleys need to move to curb pick up from the previous alley collection.

Mainly, she said, the goal of ONEDAY is to save Dallas residents money, and that moving from alley to curb pick-up in some areas will contribute to that, just as cutting to one day of collection does.

She additionally explained that recycled goods are sold, generating revenue thanks to the increase in recycling efforts since ONEDAY Dallas began in North Dallas 1 ½ years ago.

This prompted a comment from the audience: “We’ll lose money from recycling then, because we won’t drag two carts out to the curb.”

Nix made it clear that she was there to hear concerns and was available and willing to work with residents. “Wherever we can, we’re trying to stay in alleys, because that’s what most residents prefer.”

According to Nix, the reality of the issue comes down to trucks and budget.

“Our smallest truck, the Alley Cat, is rear loading, and holds 1/3 the capacity of most of the sanitation trucks used throughout the country, including our big truck with the arm - the Automated Collector," said Nix.

This truck, used for street pick-up, has a greater capacity, requiring fewer trips to the landfill and thereby arguably saving money in both fuel and time.

Also at issue is the number of employees necessary to operate the larger truck.

“The Automated Collector requires only one operator," explained Nix. "Whereas the Alley Cat requires a driver, plus two people on the back. It measures 7 feet, 4 inches from fender to fender, and 7 feet, 10 inches from mirror to mirror."

"The alleys earmarked for transition to curb pick-up have eight feet of pavement, and are 12 feet, 9 inches from fence to fence. That’s a tight squeeze."

Nix clarified why some alleys are no longer suitable for service, citing a loss of leeway due to deterioration, overgrowth, sagging overhead lines, and truck wear and tear on the pavement.

“Our alleys were designed for lighter traffic, and many dead end and have 90 degree turns that either the truck can’t make or that contribute to damage with continued truck passage."

In response to concerns regarding elderly or infirm residents, Nix offered several suggestions including requesting a smaller, lightweight roll cart.

Additionally, she said that disabled folks needing help can call the Sanitation Department to arrange for a driver to come to their home, empty their roll cart and return it to its spot on their property.

She also recommended signing on with the Helping Hands Network, and again stressed to the audience that if a resident has a problem, she welcomes their calls, saying that her department will work with the elderly to find a solution.

Residents also raised the issue of trash cans at the curb creating a detriment to property values.