Staffing shortages due in part to COVID-19 have caused another hitch for a city of Austin department. As a result, Austin curbside customers will not be able to leave brush and large items out for trash pickup.

The Austin Resource Recovery department will begin the suspension of large brush and bulk collection for curbside customers Feb. 21 and will not start collection again until further notice, according to a news release from the city.

In hopes of gaining enough staff to re-establish all curbside collections, ARR recently increased starting wages for entry-level and experienced drivers. New drivers start at $17 an hour, with pay increases as employees progress in their roles and on-the-job commercial driver license training.

Those interested in applying for the ARR team can call 512-974-1980 or visit the department’s website.