Author: Sara Visintainer

Bigg Tyme Trash Takes Over Residential Waste Services

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We’re pleased to announce that Bigg Tyme Trash of Preston, MD—a locally-owned and operated waste collection company offering residential trash, recycling, bulk pickup, and roll-off dumpster services—will begin weekly trash collection in Ridgely starting Monday, July 1

As part of the transition, Republic Services will conduct its final pickup on Monday, June 30, and then remove its old cans. Bigg Tyme Trash will deliver one new can at no extra cost to each household.

Trash collection will continue to occur every Monday.

Please remember:

  1. Place trash cans curbside on Sunday evening. Pickup starts early Monday morning, typically before 7 a.m.
  2. Use only the provided can; additional bags should be secured inside it. Bigg Tyme will pick up one additional can provided by the resident, but only if the can has a closed lid.
  3. Bulk items and brush go out only on designated Tuesday collections (with timber rules above).

Hazardous materials—paints (unless dried), chemicals, tires, asbestos, stumps, etc.—are not accepted and must be disposed of properly.

For more information about trash services, including bulk trash and leaf pickup, visit our Department of Public Works page.

Bigg Tyme Trash provides residential recycling, bulk waste, roll-off dumpsters, and junk removal. For service questions, you can contact them at (410) 463‑2081.

If you have questions or concerns about trash service, Republic pickup, or how to prepare your items, please contact the Town Office at (410) 634‑2177 or email questions@ridgelymd.org.

Welcome, Bigg Tyme Trash—we look forward to clean, smooth service ahead!

New Commissioners Sworn into Office

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The Town of Ridgely was pleased to swear in Chad Leister and Brad Sears during the May 5, 2025 meeting.

Commissioner Leister is serving in his first term and was elected to a three year term. Originally from Pasadena, Maryland, Commissioner Leister has lived in Caroline County for over fifteen years, the last 5 in Ridgely. His favorite thing about the town is the friendliness of the residents that gives a truly good neighbor feeling. He is the organizer for the Ridgely town-wide yard sale and loves seeing how people enjoy walking throughout the town during the event. He is employed with the Anne Arundel County Department of Public Works. In his spare time, Commissioner Leister enjoys metal detecting and searching for old bottles, hunting, and fishing.

Commissioner Sears was elected to a one-year term, after having previously been appointed to the remainder of the term of a previous commissioner who resigned. Commissioner Sears is a retired consultant/project manager with 30+ years in finance and information systems. He loves solving problems and embracing our small-town charm with Nancy, his wife.

Their election followed a competitive race featuring four candidates: Chad Leister, John Buckle, Brad Sears, and James Romph. The Town of Ridgely extends its gratitude to all candidates for their willingness to serve and their commitment to improving our town.

We congratulate Commissioners Leister and Sears on their election and look forward to their continued contributions to Ridgely’s growth and prosperity.

For more information about the role of Town Commissioners, including duties, term, and election information, please visit the Town Commissioners section of our website.

Ridgely Launches New Emergency & Community Alert System Through Everbridge

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The Town of Ridgely is excited to announce a new partnership with Everbridge, a nationwide leader in emergency communication systems. Through this partnership, the Town will be able to send real-time emergency and community alerts directly to residents via text, email, phone calls, or mobile app notifications.

The Everbridge system will be used to quickly share critical information that helps keep the community informed and safe. Alerts may include severe weather warnings, road closures, water service interruptions, public safety threats, missing persons, utility emergencies, or important town announcements such as meeting notices or event changes.

“We are always looking for ways to keep our residents safe and well-informed,” said Commissioner John Hurley. “This system allows us to reach people quickly during emergencies, which can make a real difference in how we respond as a community.”

Commissioner Brad Sears emphasized the value of communication: “Ridgely may be a small town, but we face the same challenges as larger communities when it comes to keeping people informed. Everbridge gives us a reliable and easy way to connect with our residents when it matters most.”

Commissioner Chad Leister added, “Whether it’s a boil water advisory or a snowstorm on the way, this system will help us communicate quickly and clearly. It’s a great tool for both emergency response and everyday town updates.”

Residents can sign up for the free alert service through a simple online registration process, choosing how they’d like to receive messages and what types of alerts they’d like to receive.

With this new system in place, Ridgely continues its commitment to public safety, transparency, and community engagement.

sign up for alerts


Learn more about Everbridge at: https://www.everbridge.com

Celebrate All Things Strawberry at Ridgely’s Annual Strawberry Festival

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Celebrate All Things Strawberry at Ridgely’s Annual Strawberry Festival

Each May, Ridgely, Maryland, hosts its popular Strawberry Festival—an event that brings the community together to enjoy food, fun, and local traditions. Held at Martin Sutton Memorial Park, the festival is a great way to kick off the summer season and celebrate Ridgely’s history as the “Strawberry Capital of the World.”

Fun for the Whole Family

The day starts with the Strawberry Chase 5K Run/Walk, a casual, family-friendly race through town. Afterward, the park fills up with craft and food vendors, games, live music, and kids’ activities. Whether you’re there for the shopping, the food, or just to enjoy the day, there’s something for everyone.

Don’t Miss the Parade

One of the highlights of the festival is the parade. Local groups, floats, bands, and classic cars make their way down the main street, giving the whole town a reason to cheer and gather together.

Strawberries, of Course

You’ll find plenty of delicious strawberry treats throughout the day—from strawberry shortcake and smoothies to fresh berries sold by local growers. It’s the perfect time to enjoy this sweet fruit at its peak.

A Good Cause

The event is organized by the Ridgely Lions Club and serves as their biggest fundraiser of the year. Money raised from the festival supports local service projects, community programs, and scholarships. So when you attend, you’re also helping make a difference in the community.

Save the Date

The next Strawberry Festival is set for Sunday, May 25, 2025, from 9 AM to 4 PM at Martin Sutton Park. The Strawberry Chase 5K starts at 8 AM. Whether you’re local or coming from out of town, it’s a fun, family-oriented event that’s worth a visit.

For more information, visit the Ridgely Lions Club website.