In an effort to work more efficiently and to be a good steward of the taxpayer monies, the Hamblen County Highway Department is converting their trash collection equipment into automated side loader garbage collection trucks.

The conversion process will be over a period of time as budgets allow, according to a release.

As a result, collection days will be rerouted throughout the county.

New routes will be published and all collection cans will be required to be at roadside for pickup. Drivers will no longer be able to physically handle cans.

The mechanically operated refuse collection equipment, also known as automated side loaders, is equipped to only work with Hamblen County-supplied containers.

Collection containers must be in place at the county roadway no later than 6 a.m. on the

See Full Page