Two-armed pickup

It’s such a nice day that anyone with time on their hands Wednesday morning should consider stopping by Corbin Park at 11 a.m., where the city plans to show off one of its newest vehicles.

A new garbage truck that can pick up cans on either side of the alley in a single pass. It’s sure to be a big event; even Mayor Mary Verner is supposed to be there.

Hmmm. Garbage pickup. Corbin Park. Alleys. Mary Verner.

Where have we seen those concepts all together in the past?

Oh, yeah…

…Now I remember.

Back in 2007, the city tried to cancel garbage pickup in many of the city’s alleys, citing cost and tight spaces. They started first on the North Side, with relatively little public input, catching residents by surprise.

And surprised residents equal unhappy voters.

Then Mayor Dennis Hession caught the brunt of the alley backlash. Then Counciwlwoman Mary Verner became…Mayor Mary Verner.

So it would appear that alley pickup is here to stay. City officials will show off lthe truck at NE Oval and Waverly Place between 11 a.m. and noon.

Black tie optional. Not sure if treats will be served….