Park La Brea Residents Association
  • Home
  • News
  • Meetings
  • Renter's Resources
  • Movie Nights
  • About
    • Board
    • FAQ
  • Contact Us
  • Join Now

News

Tower Trash Valet EXPERIENCE Survey

8/30/2022

33 Comments

 
Tower residents have had a couple of days to try out the new valet trash service. In advance of our next Zoom Board meeting on September 6th at 7 pm, PLBRA is collecting feedback from residents on the experience. We'd like to be able to approach PLB management and have a constructive conversation about what is working and what is not.  Please take the survey below - and of course, we welcome your comments about using the service after you take the survey.

If you're still having difficulties with the instructions for the service, or just need a reminder, we've created this handy cheat sheet to download.  Feel free to share with friends and neighbors.

    Trash Valet Experience Survey

Submit
33 Comments
Jon N.
8/31/2022 09:41:21 am

Not enough time has gone by for this survey yet. I could not answer well about people taking in their bins as nobody else used bins on my floor yet other than me. I still wonder if we will get the contact information of someone at Valet Living who is solely dedicated to PLB?? Their customer service is slow and in my one experience useless. So we need a better contact for issues. Also - what about broken glass? What about very bulky packaging insulation materials?

Reply
Adine Porino
8/31/2022 11:39:53 am

We need specific and simple instructions...
1) Bags needed for garbage, recycling, compost
2) Contact info for questions
3) Pick up time

Also, the pick up time is set at a time when the elevators are in high usage. 7 to 9pm would be a better time frame.

Reply
Samantha Watzek
8/31/2022 01:24:17 pm

I am quite pleased with this service. As a Park La Brea resident of close to 6 years now (and now living on 10th floor)…it has been difficult with elevator issues to take trash down and when I do - it is overfilled and disgusting down there. This service has been speedy, quick, efficient and I feel will greatly reduce cockroaches and rats infestation I have seen in our basements. If all tenants comply with this simple new offer, things could really go quite well. Especially seeing as the chutes are out of code and cannot be used anyway (never used them to begin with)!

To be honest - I don’t see any negatives to this service. Hoping fellow tenants actually give this the due justice it deserves.

But having someone come to my door daily to pick up my trash and compost (and doing it speedy, quick and mess free)? Count me in!

Reply
Sara
8/31/2022 02:07:50 pm

I see the positives of it but my neighbors are already not throwing away their trash in the bins. Our neighbor last night just had their garbage bags without putting it in the bin. We already have a cockroach problem in the tower and I’m concerned people not following the directions is just going to make it worse. They’re also not returning their bins inside. What the heck is going on here?

Park la Brea needs to fine residents that are not following directions- a hefty fine might motivate people to follow the rules.

Reply
Sonya Greco
8/31/2022 02:34:43 pm

I followed the instructions and left my garbage bins outside my door on the first day and no one picked up the garbage. Did the same thing on day 2 and it was picked up. I am hoping that we get consistent service.

Reply
Jennifer Sullivan
9/1/2022 01:17:03 pm

The same thing happened to us. On the second day, they didn't take my recycling because I hadn't tied the bag shut - but they left a note letting me know why it wasn't picked up. I am optimistic about this and hope that it is more consistent going forward.

Reply
Lonnie Hinckley
8/31/2022 03:16:48 pm

see above

Reply
Sandy Rizzo
8/31/2022 07:48:47 pm

I’m sure this is convenient for some residents, but most nights, I don’t get home from work until after 7:00, so I don’t see this service this working for me. I got home last night after 7:00 and trash had not yet been picked up. Everyone had their trash outside their doors and it made me realize how gross and disgusting it is to have all that trash in the hallways. I see a big bug problem in our future.

Reply
Linda K
8/31/2022 09:31:59 pm

My experience is that I have not been home in time any night this week to participate yet. I'm grateful that the chutes and the basement bins are still an option for those of us that don't have schedules that align with PLB's. Asking yet again what they're going to do for people like us? This is obviously my biggest concern.

Would also still like to know why it's no longer a fire hazard to now have something in front of your door, and what if anything are they doing to prevent bugs? The latter is a huge concern for me. We had such a terrible issue with bugs in the past and it was so disgusting, I just don't want to chance going back. I fear if we start to get roaches, flies, etc. again in the hallways, it will take forever to get them out (if we're that lucky).

Thank you for this survey and anything you can do to be of help.

Reply
NANCY
9/1/2022 01:26:51 am

I don’t trust the residents; today when I came home, little after 7 pm, the corridor smelled like trash even though one of the doors was open.
People let their dogs urinate in the elevators or close to the building entrance; smoke below the building windows , etc. don’t think they will abide with common sense practices for corridor trash 😔

Reply
Gycel
9/1/2022 02:22:28 pm

At the tower where I live only one family joined the program, and that’s enough to have the smell of garbage fill the entire floor! They leave out the trash early in the day because they come back from work after 10 pm.
The rest of us are not joining because it is a health and safety hazard.
In case of evacuation due to fire or earthquakes all the trash bins would be in the way! Especially if we received boxes from delivery. The corridors are so narrow and our apartment doors are already close to each other.
Or access to paramedics in case of an emergency (bins trash and boxes on the way)
What about visitors? Or after a long day at work , coming back home, the doors of the elevator opens (if elevator is working) and the smell and trash is welcoming us!
Have you noticed also that we have problems with the elevators efficiency?
This Valet system is not suited for complexes like PLB. Your reviews will be worst.
Yes, we want to be green, jus tenants need constant education.we can continue using the shutters JUST for organic/composting and the rest on the basement bins with clear pictures of the categories of the trash.
Also sanitation of the shutters and basement every 3 months.
Thank you for your attention.

Reply
WORST IDEA EVE
9/1/2022 04:30:40 pm

This is a TERRIBLE idea. Moving the disgusting garbage from the basement, to RIGHT IN FRONT OF WHERE WE LIVE!
look at all those holidays when there will BE NO GARBAGE pick-up!
Another big concern is that this will look/smell horrible and I fear there will be roaches and their friends all over our hallways.
I wonder what the LA Health Department will think of this cockamamie idea
The bins in the basement have been a fire hazard for the 25 years I have lived here? And the bins in the hallway are not going to be a fire hazard? Can someone explain this?
For years we’ve been told that anything outside our doors is a hazard impeding escape from fire.

Reply
Sam
9/1/2022 11:50:15 pm

There was not enough notice for this service to be in effect.
As a society in general there is no proper education on proper disposal of waste, recycling, and compost.
I appreciate the emails and sheets that explain, but there are many unanswered questions about materials. Example: broken glass cups, and broken ceramics specifically. The website explains how to dispose of glass bottles, and ceramics that AREN’T broken.

My other concerns are that my full bag of recycling and full bag of trash does not fit into the black bin and unable to close. I was told to stack them one on top of the other but then that leaves a terrible site for my neighbors and the smell isn’t contained inside the trash can. I have been able to smell trash in the hallways now. There is no AC in the hallways and it is stuffy and smelly.
I work in the evenings so this program is not convenient. Now I feel forced to only be able to take the trash and recycling out on my days off which makes it inconvenient, especially when I have items that smell extra strong and would like to dispose of them asap.
I have seen on Facebook that the valet came around 11 am the next day to collect their trash. That is 2 hours past what is required. Are we going to get penalized for Valet’s inability to collect trash within the allotted time?

I really care about recycling, composting and learning about how to do so properly. This program has some upsides but I think overall it is not effective and thought out enough to work for PLBRA towers.

Reply
b
9/2/2022 10:05:38 am

This service as it stands right now cannot completely replace the bins or chutes, which is what PLB ultimately wants to do. Also I think it's reasonable to expect that when the hoohaw about it does down they'll start treating this like a revenue stream and fining us when we forget to tie our bags.

Reply
AG
9/3/2022 11:16:33 am

I live in a garden home and I was excited to participate in the composting. After reading this and learning that composting bags are being provided, I would add that we’d like to also receive them for the garden units. Many people won’t utilize the service because it’s messy and the compost bin is full or maggots. If residents could be provided compost bags it would likely help encourage participation from more people and keep the trash area pest free.

Reply
Nancy
9/3/2022 12:54:50 pm

So far there have been two occasions when my trash wan’t picked up, and that includes today, 9/3. I will have to haul my trash, compositing and recycle down to the basement, because they’re not going to make it to Tuesday.
In Tower 47, 6th floor, compliance seems to be good.
I fear vermin, because some roaches had already begun to appear in the week before the valet service began, and we never see bugs above the basement level. No Bugs is one of the foundational pleasures of living here.
So: fingers crossed. Composting and recycling is, of necessity, the law, after all.

Reply
J W
9/3/2022 03:16:39 pm

When this service has picked up my trash and recycling it’s been wonderful. However, since the program started they have already forgotten to take my trash once. (I put my bin out at 6:15-6:30pm). I also don’t like the fact that we need to purchase new bags for recycling. If PLB can provide the green compost bags they can also provide the clear/blue recycling bags. None of my neighbors have participated in this new service yet.

Reply
Tracy Eastman
9/4/2022 10:17:04 am

Many on floor do not seem to be participating in program so it may be soon too tell. Last night, pick up was not until about10:30pm. I was about to throw the trash down the chute iin bags,, if they had not come. There is noone to call late at night about pickup...
The deadline for starting this program is2025...too bad they are starting it now.

Reply
Sandra
9/4/2022 11:52:58 am

I do like this program. It is a positive effort. I too have had an occasion when they missed the pick up, but since then, I have put my trash container a little more forward and easier to see.
I just wish it were a twice daily pick up.
Also, as other commets, my neighbors do not seem to be doing this.
My last comment… I have my own trash bin. It is scaled to the size of my studio. I am asking to have the big black trash and compost cans removed. I have purchased my own little compost pot and feel quite pleased to be actively participating .

Reply
Gerry
9/4/2022 03:59:55 pm

OVERALL A VERY NEGATIVE EXPERIENCE! Everyone who follows this will have garbage in the hallways, and everyone who don’t follow will also have garbage in the hallways, just messier!
To everyone who wants their food delivered to their doors: good luck! That food is now gonna be side by side with trash!
Oh and remember how PLB doesn’t let anyone leave stuff outside their apartment doors (I loved this!), well now everyone’s encouraged to display their most priced possessions: their garbage!
Aesthetically, this is an absolute disaster. Instead of having all trash in one area away from view (basement), we’ll now have it in every hallways of every floor! You have guests coming over for holidays?! Let’s show them how nice our garbage decorations are!
This thing assumes everyone in this complex has the same exact schedule. Assuming we live close to perfection and 99% have the same sched, there’s still 1% that wouldn’t be able to follow that time frame. That’s 1% more trash problem than before. How are you fixing that?
They also sent out an e-mail they won’t pick up trash on holidays. NOPE! No days off allowed for you if you’re implementing this BS! Holidays mean more people at home and more trash!
I MEAN SERIOUSLY, WHO’S IDEA WAS THIS?! DID YOU SEE ALL THE HOMELESS ENCAMPMENT OUTSIDE AND SAID “WOW, THAT’S NICE!” LET’S MAKE OUR APARTMENTS LOOK LIKE THAT TOO!”

Reply
Sandra
9/4/2022 05:27:26 pm

The vehemence of some of the negative comments here is really stunning.
Yes, the system does need “tweaking” but on balance it is very workable and a worthwhile endeavor for the climate which is necessary.
Yes, I wish there were two pickups and I do need the Valet trash cans picked up but it is all workable and I am sure my neighbors will do just fine.
Negativity doesn’t push us forward.
Please get with the program.

Reply
Samantha Watzek
9/5/2022 10:05:26 pm

I fully agree with you.

Reply
B
9/4/2022 05:38:20 pm

I really think there needs to be a serious timeline adjustment for this, or at LEAST two pickups per day. I also agree that Holidays are wonderful to give off to employees, but I’m sure Valet Living can find SOMEONE who wants overtime/holiday pay to do a pickup.

Mostly it’s the lack of consideration of everyone’s schedules not being the same that’s the most annoying. It feels very “corporate hours” to me which is very off-putting and comes across very disconnected. And I BETTER not get a complaint about the pointless newsletters nobody asks for being left out - I didn’t ask for it, it’s not my trash, so don’t try to fine me.

Reply
Summary points
9/5/2022 06:30:49 pm

Summary of points why valet trash door service at PLB should be stopped immediately.

1. Fire hazard impeding entry exit
2. Bugs and pests
3. PLB does not have the man power to enforce compliance, therefore others will suffer from smells, bugs and the visual of trash at there doors and hallways welcoming them home.
4. NOISE nuisance after 10pm - the large bins the valet service uses rolling around past 10pm at night are very loud. Similar to the loud noise of the basement bins being rolled in and out in the morning. Now residents are distributed late at night with trash bins and again early in the morning from the basement bins. It has been observed by many residents the noise past 10pm.
5. Trash Visual - Having trash at ones front door is visually unappealing and disgusting. Imagine bringing a date or friend over to your supposed to be nice apartment and walking through the hallway past trash and arriving at your door, with trash. Some residents are paying a significant rent, for example more upgraded units and expect a higher appeal of living standards.
6. Elevators access - The elevator access has become more limited as valet living occupies it. Keeping in mind a large percentage of residents are not yet even utilizing the service so the usage and time will only increase significantly.
7. Elevator smell - Ask any tower residents that have been in the elevators around pickup times and you’ll find the smell is disgusting. There is also “trash juice” inside.
8. Hallway trash juice and smell - The smell and trash juice in the hallways.
9. Lost packages / packages mixed with trash - packages will be delivered sitting next to garbage. This will undoubtedly cause lost packages due to being mistaken for trash or worse, encourage more theft.
10. Schedule - the schedule will not work for all 4K+ residents. Further adding to un-compliance and trash sitting out for long periods of time.
11. Non disclosure - PLB did not disclose this known change to residents who recently signed leases, even though it was a known change coming. Future residents should be able to make informed decisions.
12. Prospective residents that tour a unit and see trash in the hallways at residences doors will be turned off by this. This needs to be CLEARLY disclosed.


Simple Alternative
1. Clearly label the bins in the basement.
2. Communicate clearly via email/mail of process.
3. While the trash chute is nice to have, shut it down if it’s an issue.

Reply
Samantha Watzek
9/5/2022 10:06:52 pm

Who is this comment by?

Reply
Adine Porino
9/6/2022 01:25:01 pm

In response to the 12 bullet points posted yesterday..

I was very positive about the simplicity and ease of garbage disposal until I read your post

You have valid points about the bugs, smell and noise which I had not considered.

I have some suggestions and comments

1) Put garbage out between 7pm and 9pm
2) Pick up trash between 9pm and 11pm
3) Designate one elevator for garbage pick up between 9pm and 11pm
4) Clean elevator thoroughly once garbage pick up is finished.
5) Could the 3rd elevator be put back into commision to be used as a service elevator?
7) In regards to package deliveries, usually they are delivered before the garbage is put out.
8) I am sorry for the people that are disturbed by the noise. We have not heard the pick up on ou floor.

Reply
Cecilia Z
9/7/2022 09:17:46 pm

I am not the kind of person who complains about everything…. So far, the service has been ok, but for me, the worst part is having all the trash outside the apartments. Yesterday I have some visitors and I felt so embarrassed with all the trash and bins all over the hall!! It looks horrible!! :-(


Is there a way that we can leave the bins in another place hidden? Not outside our doors?

Maybe installing more powerful industrial extractor fans on the basement to avoid the horrible odors? Made the garbage company to instead of picking the garbage twice or three times a week, do it daily? And return to the old way?

I’m sure there most be another way! Thanks for all your efforts of making this community a better one!! I really appreciate it!

Reply
Ashu Nayyar
9/12/2022 08:29:21 pm

Do we not have trash service on Saturdays? On the last 2 Saturdays, my trash wasn't picked up. I live in Tower 49.

Reply
Arezoo rostamian
9/18/2022 07:30:34 am

Valet living trash pick up only brought the smell and roaches to the hallways of tower. We want park la brea to stop this annoying unnecessary service. We don’t want roach problem on top of current problems.

Reply
Rhett
12/30/2022 04:29:21 pm

How is everyone managing Valet Living collection after 3 months?

Reply
JA
1/27/2023 10:47:27 pm

I'm definitely not liking how Park La Brea has forced residents to use this service now. Why remove the trash chutes and basement bins? That seems unethical and unsanitary. I'm in Tower 47 and this is the second night in a row where trash hasn't been picked up on my floor. I have two days worth of trash now. We should have the option to throw our trash away as well, since Valet Living picks and chooses which day they pick up trash.

Reply
Trash concern
1/30/2023 12:49:36 pm

Why are the trash bins in the basement being removed for good? Or did I misunderstand that? For people who do not use the valet trash service, that is how we dispose of trash. This is very unsanitary. Does anyone know what agency we can report this disgusting trash policy to?

Reply
Really concerned
1/30/2023 02:25:16 pm

They are removing the trash bins from the basement and forcing us to use this terrible service which is ridiculous. I know I’ll throw my trash there with or without bins.

Reply



Leave a Reply.

    Archives

    March 2023
    February 2023
    January 2023
    October 2022
    August 2022
    July 2022
    June 2022
    May 2022
    April 2022
    February 2022
    January 2022
    November 2021
    September 2021
    August 2021
    June 2021
    May 2021

    Categories

    All
    General News
    Movie Nights
    Resident Issues
    Safety And Security
    Survey Responses

    RSS Feed

​Helpful Contacts
First Response
​Emergency: 911
Police (Non-
Emergency): 877-275-5273
Fire (
Non-Emergency): 213-485-6185


LAPD Wilshire Station Contacts
Senior Lead Officer Anna Schube
32825@lapd.online

Captain Sonia Monico
213-473-0476
30364@lapd.online
​Park La Brea Contacts
PLB Administration, Service, Parking and Leasing: 323-549-5400
PLB Patrol: 323-549-5508

Rent and Accounting
Garden Blocks: residentaccounting1@parklabrea.com
Towers 33-41: residentaccounting3@parklabrea.com
Towers 42-50: residentaccounting4@parklabrea.com
PLB Leasing: PLBLeasing2@primegrp.com

For Repair Requests:
PLB Service: plbservice@parklabrea.com

PLB Director of Accounting, Ken Ko
ken.ko@parklabrea.com

Resident/Customer Services Alice George
Alice.George@parklabrea.com

Regional Service Manager Gigi Guerra
guisela.guerra@parklabrea.com



PLB VP Operations, Aryn Thomez
aryn.thomez@primegrp.com

Senior Lead Customer Service Specialist, Sylvie Brousseau
sylvie.brousseau@parklabrea.com

ABLE|ABM Director of Maintenance Justin Cahn
justin.cahn@parklabrea.com

Senior Manager of Construction: Harry Helman
harry.helman@parklabrea.com

PLB Director of Marketing & Leasing Maura Daly Stanton: maura.daly@parklabrea.com

PLB Allied Universal Patrol Director Angelo R. Dahlia
angelo.dahlia@parklabrea.com

PLB Allied Universal Assistant Patrol Director
Victor Fonseca victor.fonseca@parklabrea.com
  • Home
  • News
  • Meetings
  • Renter's Resources
  • Movie Nights
  • About
    • Board
    • FAQ
  • Contact Us
  • Join Now