Charlotte Celebrates Waste and Recycling Workers Week
Published on June 16, 2025
Solid Waste Services works tirelessly to provide exceptional service to residents. From those out operating trucks, to those scouring the streets of Uptown, to those at headquarters making sure everything runs smoothly, they are all committed to making Charlotte clean and beautiful. Every June, we celebrate Waste and Recycling Workers Week, which is an opportunity to acknowledge the relentless dedication of our Solid Waste team.
To help us recognize these incredible employees, we enlisted the people they support to send in any kind words or stories. And you delivered!
Some submissions have been edited for brevity, clarity and to keep personal details private.
Shoutouts from Charlotte Residents
To Cedric Galloway, sanitation equipment operator:
“My two-year-old son loves trucks and every Friday he runs to the front door when he hears it coming down our street. When the truck drivers see him on the porch, they make sure to wave and honk the horn and it really makes his day. I think they remember him, and I appreciate them doing this even when it's raining and he can only get a glimpse from the window.”
To Eric Shuford, labor crew chief:
“We would like to shout out SWS’ own Eric Shuford, labor crew chief, for making sure the residents of Charlotte are being serviced effectively and efficiently. He collaborates with 311 to ensure everyone is serviced in a timely manner. He is definitely appreciated and deserves to be acknowledged!!”
To Delanie Clinton, sanitation equipment operator:
“Shout out to my Solid Waste Services driver operating the Sugar Creek area. He's always pleasant and doesn't leave my trash cans in the middle of the street. He is kind, courteous, and a good worker. He works my street, and I enjoy waiting to trash day just to have a good sports conversation with him.”
To Vic Nicholas, sanitation equipment operator:
“I was thrilled with yard waste collection this week. I noticed that the HOA had done work and placed it at the easement, and it was all picked up. They did a good job and always do a good job.”
To Kenneth Curtis, sanitation equipment operator:
“I would like to compliment the yard waste crew for excellent service and going above and beyond their duties on collection day.”
To Robert Adams, sanitation equipment operator:
Robert saw a resident standing in the rain with her cart after the truck passed her home and he was very considerate and returned to her home to complete collection. She wanted to ensure the driver receives recognition for going above and beyond. (via 311)
To Brandi Williams, Erika Wiley, Brian Garrett and Abdul Abdul-Haqq:
“I want to thank the entire team for what you do. I want to thank Brandi Williams for the information sessions she and Erika Wiley have had in the evenings for community leaders. They were very informative, and it gave leaders a chance to share their experiences. I want to give a big shout out to Erika Wiley who has worked with me by providing brochures and booklets full of information about what Solid Waste does and what its schedules are. I could not forget Brian Garrett. I asked several years ago about getting a dumpster for a community cleanup and he was cordial, friendly and very helpful. I have been getting the dumpster now for over 10 years for my spring and fall cleanups. I need to apologize to Brian because at meetings I have informed other communities about cleanups and now they have started calling Brian. My last big thank you goes out to Abdul. This man has gone the extra mile for communities. His crew is exceptional and does not hesitate to help whenever needed. Example: A dagger tree had been blown down during a storm. My husband cut it up, but he could not put it on the street because of the daggers (the points are just like a dagger). He was afraid Solid Waste workers would be hurt. I called Abdul and he sent a special truck with the long arms to pick those pieces up. I really appreciated him doing that. When the community and the services the city provide work together, it creates harmony. So much appreciation for what Solid Waste does. We in Bridlewood love Solid Waste Services. Thank you so much!!!”
To the entire team:
“We are thankful for the work of those men and women — yes in rain, sleet, heat, and snow when possible. We do our share to keep them busy with yard waste — sometimes 15 or more containers after all the leaves have fallen. May God bless them all and thanks for this service.”
“Clearly a department well managed and prioritized, our city always looks fantastic. I work in Uptown and sometimes break my neck to send the guys a hello and thank you. Thank you all for your work.”
“I'd like to acknowledge and shout out all the wonderful hard working service crews that provide services to the Queen City.”
“Thank you SWS for keeping our community clean and safe! We appreciate you!”
“On behalf of my family, thank you for all your hard work.”
“Thank you for the work you do! I commend you!”
“I have been thrilled with garbage, recycling and yard waste collections. It is always picked up and they do a good job.”
“I want to thank the Solid Waste bulky crew for doing an outstanding job. The guy was very logical, friendly and professional. Thank you for all you do and keep up the good work.”
Happy Waste and Recycling Workers Week to our Solid Waste Services team, and thank you to the residents who shared their stories. This week, and year-round, we appreciate their hard work.
Have a story to share about Solid Waste Services? Our online form is always open for submissions.