The City of Bloomington has started leaf pickup. (Photo By Flickr user gabster10)

By Zach Dietmeier

BLOOMINGTON - If you have leaves falling already in your yard, the City of Bloomington is ready to remove them. The Public Works Department is picking up leaves early this year.

City Public Works Director Jim Karch says his crews will start the leaf vacuum program on Monday. Karch says his department wants to get an early jump on fall pickups.

"We collect in quite a few different ways," said Karch. "We use vactor trucks and end loaders, trying to do the best we can while the weather allows to get those leaves off the streets before they cause issues. They clog inlets and can cause major issues."

Karch asks you to keep piles away from cars and fire hydrants. Karch says you can place your unbagged leaves near your driveway or the shoulder of the road but not near cars or fire hydrants.

"Whenever you park your cars, please don't park in front of the leaf piles," said Karch. "I've been out there in past years with our crews, and trying to rake the piles from around your vehicle is so difficult when we come by your home."

All other brush and yard waste should be raked into other piles. If you have questions, you can contact the Public Works office.

Zach Dietmeier can be reached at Zach.Dietmeier@Cumulus.com.