Rush Township began its leaf and branch pickup Monday, but Supervisor Robert Leibensperger said some residents are trying to take advantage of the service.

“They are literally cutting down trees and the trunks of trees, and we are not picking them up,” he said. “We are not spending a day or two doing that for people who are obviously blatantly trying to take advantage.”

The township has never accepted tree trunks or large limbs, he said.

The township asks that residents have all leaves and branches at curbside for the pickup. Branches must be bundled and no more than 6 inches in diameter.

“This is a public service to benefit the residents and not to go full-fledged for doing stuff for landscapers and tree trimmers and everyone else,” Leibensperger said.

One property owner attempted to put out the remnants of five large trees, he noted.

“It’s ridiculous. It would take them two days to grind them up and get rid of them,” Leibensperger said.

In an unrelated matter, supervisors will advertise for bids for a new garbage collection contract. The contract would begin March 1, 2025.

The board also approved an ordinance that would allow the Hometown Fire Company and other emergency responders in the township to seek reimbursement for costs and expenses related to emergency response.

Supervisors also approved Site Specific to replace the sewer control panel at the Laurelwood Lift Station.