Manatee County Launches Bulk Pickup Pilot Program, Advances Economic Development and Animal Welfare Initiatives

The Manatee County Board of County Commissioners has approved the launch of a Bulk Collection Pilot Program by Manatee County Utilities beginning May 1, 2026, expanding curbside bulk pickup service for residents while collecting data to help evaluate future service options.

Under the pilot program, residential customers will be able to have two bulk items picked up at the curb on a predetermined scheduled regular service day once per month, for a total of 12 collections per year, with no rate changes at this time. The program will also include one annual bulk collection per property (of up to 10 cubic yards) of the same material.

Certain items, including tires and white goods (appliances), as well as the annual large-bulk pickup, will require advance scheduling through the County’s Customer Self-Service Portal at mymanatee.org/css.

“Thanks for thinking about the citizens, this is really helpful,” said District 5 Commissioner Dr. Bob McCann. “This is going to make a big difference for a lot of people,” added District 2 Commissioner Amanda Ballard.

Household hazardous waste and electronic scrap services will not change as part of the pilot program and will continue to not be collected curbside. Manatee County residents may continue to drop off these materials free of charge at the Lena Road Landfill, and the County will continue offering four remote household hazardous waste drop-off events each year. More information is available at mymanatee.org/hhw.

Separately, the board approved the execution of a services agreement with the Bradenton Area Economic Development Corporation to support economic development activities countywide. The agreement provides annual funding, administered through quarterly payments, and reinforces the County’s commitment to fostering strategic growth, job creation, and a strong local economy.

The Manatee County Board of County Commissioners also appointed members to the Animal Services Advisory Board.

Melissa Carman was appointed to Seat 1, representing a citizen with expertise in business development, finance, and/or operations. Katy Demick, Ly Bibiana Salmon Wetzel, and Carol Whitmore were appointed to Seat 2, representing citizens affiliated with nonprofit organizations, agencies, or voluntary associations focused on the care, handling, or rescue of domestic animals.

For Seat 3, which represents citizens who have volunteered at least 80 hours with Manatee County Animal Welfare or a private rescue agency within the past two years, the Board appointed Wendy Gonzales, David Daniels, Kim Bruenner, Kerri Hughes, and Dena Sabou.

The Animal Services Advisory Board provides input to the Board of County Commissioners on policies, programs, and initiatives related to animal welfare, including shelter operations, community outreach, and efforts to promote responsible pet ownership and reduce animal overpopulation.

For more information on Manatee County Government, visit mymanatee.org or contact Manatee County Government Communications at news@mymanatee.org or call (941) 745-6397 (NEWS). Follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @ManateeGov.