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PARKERSBURG — The city of Parkersburg is suspending all curbside recycling collection services until further notice, effective immediately, according to a statement Friday by Mayor Tom Joyce.

The decision follows ongoing staff shortages and a significant increase in employee call-offs within the department, which have made it increasingly difficult to provide consistent service to the high standard residents expect and deserve, he said.

“Parkersburg has offered free curbside recycling to our residents for many years,” said Joyce. “Unfortunately, we simply do not have the personnel currently to continue this service effectively and efficiently, and I take full responsibility for not taking this suspension action earlier to alleviate the frustration and uncertainty many resident customers have experienced the past several weeks.”

Joyce said he has discussed this suspension action with representatives from both the Public Service Commission and the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection and confirmed that Parkersburg will not be penalized or subject to enforcement action related to this temporary action.

“We remain committed to providing high quality public services and will explore all options for reinstating curbside recycling in the future. Including the opportunity for city council and public input on planning for stabilization of our entire sanitation operations,” Joyce said.

Residents are reminded that recycling can still be dropped off at the Parkersburg Recycling Center, at 100 24th St., which remains open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

“We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate the public’s understanding as we work through these challenges,” he said.