Mission accomplished! Ironton's alleys and curbs have remained mostly garbage-free for nearly a month since the new sanitation routes were adopted.

To address the citywide problem that began when three sanitation employees were laid off in May and a truck was taken out of service, early last month Ironton officials divided the city into five sections with both trucks working in the same section each day until the route is completed.

"During the last month, our sanitation workers have been able to get the routes caught up and on a schedule," Mayor John Elam said. "Our operational efficiency and productivity levels have increased tremendously."

Residents appear to be pleased with the new system. Elam indicated that his office has gone from receiving nearly 100 calls a week to virtually none.

Long-time Ironton resident Homer Campbell Sr. said he has been pleased to see that his garbage is now being picked up regularly on the same day of the week.

"I am satisfied with the way it is right now," he said. "I would like to see as many people as possible working, but if two crews can do it - let them do it."

The new schedule operates on a five-day plan.

Starting from the south side of town, garbage will be collected from the city limits to McGovney Street and from the Ohio River to U.S. 52 on Mondays. All the neighborhoods off of State Route 141 will also be collected that day.

Tuesday collections cover all the neighborhoods between McGovney to Heplar streets.

On Wednesdays, collections will be from Heplar to Monroe streets. Residents in the areas of Deep Cut Road, Orchard Hollow Road and Yellow Branch Road will also have their garbage collected Wednesdays.

Every Thursday, including today, trash will be collected from Monroe Street to the overpass, including Lawrence Street Road.

The week's final collection on Fridays will span from the railroad overpass to Hanging Rock.

Elam indicated that city employees will continue to pick up household waste and yard waste.

Non-household items such as couches, televisions, chairs and mattress will not be collected but can be placed inside dumpsters located behind the city garage. Dumpsters are available from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.