The Town of Reading’s Department of Public Works (DPW) has released its latest newsletter, highlighting a series of community-focused events and service updates aimed at improving sustainability and convenience for residents:
Fall Collection Event Scheduled for October 25
The DPW will host its annual Fall Collection Event on Saturday, October 25, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the DPW Facility (75 Newcrossing Rd.). The event will feature multiple recycling and disposal services:
- Electronics Collection: Residents can drop off items like VCRs and stereos. CRT TVs and monitors will not be accepted.
- Paper Shredding: A secure shredding service will be available with a two-box limit per household.
- Rigid Plastics Recycling: Items such as toys and plastic containers will be accepted.
- Styrofoam Recycling: Only clean white #6 PS block and sheet Styrofoam will be accepted. Food containers and colored Styrofoam are prohibited.
- Simple Recycling – Textile Collection: Free textile recycling is available exclusively to Reading residents. Businesses are not eligible.
Residents are encouraged to visit www.readingma.gov for a full list of acceptable items and additional details.
Hazardous Waste Collection in Wakefield
A Hazardous Materials Collection Event will be held on Saturday, November 1, 2025, from 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM at Wakefield High School (60 Farm St., Wakefield). For questions, residents can contact (781) 942-9077.
Tax Collector’s Office Implements Lockbox Service
To streamline payment processing, the Tax Collector’s Office has introduced a new lockbox service effective December 31, 2024. Residents mailing payments should now use the following address:
Town of Reading
PO Box 848203
Boston, MA 02284
In-person payments and drop-box submissions remain available.
FY2026 Water and Sewer Rates Announced
New water and sewer rates will take effect with December 2025 bills. Water rates remained unchanged from last year, while sewer rates decreased by 1%.
- Tier I (0–10 HCF): Water – \$11.15 | Sewer – \$10.40
- Tier II (11–25 HCF): Water – \$12.14 | Sewer – \$11.37
- Tier III (26-40 HCF): Water – \$12.45 | Sewer – \$11.73
- Tier IV (41 HCF+): Water – \$12.97 | Sewer – \$12.24
Additional details:
- All readings are in HCF (hundred cubic feet)
- Second water meter rate: $12.17 per unit
Residents are encouraged to review their usage and plan accordingly.
