Frequently Asked Questions for the Department of Public Works

Q. What is the telephone number of the recycling center on Route 11?
A. The number for the St. Lawrence County Solid Waste Department, located on State Highway 11 is: 287-0919

Q. Why can't I put building materials in the brush pile for D.P.W to pick up?
A. The only items allowed for curbside pick up are items that are easily compostable. We have strict guidelines that we must follow to be able to offer this service to residents at no charge.

Q. The D.P.W keeps patching the same potholes; why don't they do it right the first time to they don't have to come back? 
A. The reason is money. Proper patching takes a lot more time, money and effort that it used to. As mentioned earlier, funding for street maintenance can't keep up with the actual cost involved in all the necessary street maintenance. Sometimes it is necessary to place temporary patches then return for a proper repair when time and money permits. 

Q. When the D.P.W. flushes hydrants why does my water turn a light brown color for a few hours?
A. When the hydrants are flushed the system is using massive amounts of water to keep deposits from building up in the lines. These larger amounts of water going through the lines may sometimes stir up iron that has settled. When it combines with the air as you use it, the normally colorless iron may turns a light brown. 

Q. Can't the plow pick up his wing when he goes past my driveway?
A. No, sorry. If we did this for every dwelling in the Village we would never finish plowing; also it would leave a windrow of snow in the street that would be a safety hazard.