Binghamton Department of Public Works employees are handling a heavier-than-usual volume of trash this week.

Pat Torrico, the department's first deputy commissioner, says the load is bigger as city residents take advantage of a limited-time opportunity to get rid of certain big items without buying a special "bulk item" sticker.

Torrico told WNBF Radio's Binghamton Now program many people have been tossing out some large items this week.

Torrico acknowledged some residents may have been confused by the restrictions of the free disposal program, which was approved by City Council early this month.

Only one bulk item per household may be discarded for free under the measure.

Some residents have complained they received violation notices when they tried to toss out several items.

Torrico said people should keep in mind that the special program allows for the collection of only one bulk item per household.

The bulk sticker waiver applies only for this week.

Torrico said some employees may wind up working overtime because of the increased load of bulk items.

Some things cannot be placed at the curb for collection by city crews.

City of Binghamton residents with questions about the free disposal program may call the public works department at 607.772.7020.

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