PUBLIC WORKS

Recycle these clean/dry items:

Drop-off recycling options expanded

CoralSprings.org/recycling

The city is excited to announce the expansion of our drop off recycling program for residents who would like to ensure non-contaminated recycling. A recycling container is located at Mullins Park next to the Coral Springs Gymnasium, 2501 Coral Springs Drive, and is open for drop off 24/7. This new collection point is in addition to the recycling option at the Waste Transfer Station, which is open Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from 12 to 5 p.m. at 12600 Wiles Road. Metal & Aluminum Cans Plastic Containers Newspaper & Mixed Paper Cardboard

City welcomes new Public Works director

In late 2020, John Norris was selected to serve as the city’s new Director of Public Works. Norris is filling the role left vacant after the retirement of Richard Michaud, who proudly served the city for 29 years.

Norris has held several leadership positions within the disciplines of Public Works, making him a great candidate for our growing and innovative city.

A graduate of the

Citadel Military College of South Carolina, Norris earned his degree in Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering in 2001. Most recently, he served as the Director of Manufacturing for Colony Tire Corporation in Edenton, North Carolina. Prior to this position he served as Director of Stormwater, Pavement and Traffic Operations for the City of St. Petersburg, Florida and the Director of Public Works in Edenton, North Carolina.

In his new role, Norris leads our full-service Public Works Department, utilizing the application of technical public works and expertise to a variety of complex city projects. Attracted to the culture of innovation and inclusion fostered in the City of Coral Springs, Norris is proud to be a part of an organization with such driven employees, who are focused on improving the city for all its residents and businesses.

DID YOU KNOW?

Stormwater matters!

Pet Waste – Bacteria and parasites found in pet waste can cause health problems for humans and other animals when washed downstream. Pet waste contains nutrients that can encourage algal blooms. Dog waste that is left on the ground does not decompose rapidly and is too acidic to be used as fertilizer. Taking care of your pet waste is easy – bag it and toss it in the trash!

Litter – Litter can easily be moved and broken down by wind and water during rain events and can block storm drains, causing local flooding issues. Waste items like broken down plastic can sometimes be mistaken for food by local wildlife and can bio-accumulate up the food chain. You can help with littering issues by making sure all trash is bagged, bin lids are secure and not overflowing, spreading litter awareness, and participating in local clean-ups like the quarterly Keep Coral Springs Beautiful Clean Up events. Consider creative ways you can reduce waste.

Our city is unique on how stormwater is handled. Storm drains, like those found along curbs, do not go to wastewater treatment plants. Water entering storm drains flows untreated into wetlands, lakes and canals, and ultimately discharge into the opens.

Since stormwater is not treated, it can pick up and carry numerous pollutants into our waterways. Many of these pollutants can cause problems in very small amounts.

Common pollutants include:

Yard Waste – Half of all yard waste that enters waterways are grass clippings. When not properly disposed of, yard waste flows down storm drains and can cause drain and pipe blockages along the way. Yard waste contains nitrogen and phosphorus and can contribute to nutrient overloads. Proper fertilization, mulching and composting are ways to reduce this stormwater pollutant. Make sure to clear storm drains from yard waste to avoid flooding. You may place yard waste out for bulk pick-up or drop it off at the Waste Transfer Station on weekends. Visit CoralSprings.org/wastetransfer for details. Car Washing – Oils and other car fluids contain harmful metals and chemicals that can pollute water. Soaps used to wash cars also contain ingredients known to harm aquatic wildlife. Clean up oil/fluid spills when doing car maintenance or get these things done at a shop. Wash your car on your lawn instead of the driveway/street or go to a local car wash.

Pesticides/Herbicides – Excess herbicides can cause harm to native plant populations that help stabilize stream banks and filter water. When pesticides are washed downstream, they can end up harming “nonpest” insects that are important water quality indicators. If you use pesticides and herbicides in your lawn/ garden, be sure to apply them when there is NOT a chance of rain.

Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) – HHW includes cleaning agents, oil-based paints, cooking grease and medicines. DO NOT flush HHWs down the toilet or dump down a storm drain. HHW may be dropped off at one of our special events, visit CoralSprings.org/hhw for more information.