As Swampscott prepares to launch automated trash and recycling collection by the end of July, Republic Services says it does not expect a repeat of last summer’s labor-related disruptions.

Swampscott is entering into a new five-year contract with Republic Services. The agreement follows last summer’s Teamsters Local 25 strike against the waste hauler, which delayed and, at times, halted trash collection for more than 400,000 residents in 14 Massachusetts communities. Waste collection workers struck for higher wages, improved benefits and stronger labor protections. Beyond Swampscott, the strike impacted other communities like Lynnfield, Danvers, Marblehead, Gloucester, Peabody, Topsfield, Watertown and Saugus.

“The existing drivers that are in town, we’re training them to work automatic (collection),” Dan Higgins, the area manager of municipal sales at Republic Services, said in response to a question from the Swampscott Tides. “We appreciate the support and patience the town had last summer. It was difficult for everybody. I know it was very difficult here.”

Swampscott’s new trash contract with Republic Services includes fully automated collection, for both trash and recycling. 

Automated collection is now the industry standard for waste and recycling services. Under the system, a mechanical arm on the collection truck lifts and empties carts without requiring workers to leave the vehicle.

“We appreciate the chance to automate the town,” said Higgins. “It’s very exciting.”

Higgins said Monday that Republic Services, like many waste haulers, no longer bids on contracts that require manual collection. He said the automated pickup is “safer for the drivers.”

“Our goal is trying to keep the driver in the truck, not having to get out,” Higgins said. “We want to keep the same driver in the truck, servicing it down without them getting injured or whatnot…Every time he gets on and off the truck, you are open to injury…Ultimately we like not getting out of the truck at all, but we realize it’s going to happen.”

Higgins’ response to the Swampscott Tides came during a broader discussion Monday about the new contract, the rollout process and residents’ responsibilities under the automated collection system. Higgins answered questions along with Town Administrator Nick Connors and Department of Public Works Director Gino Cresta.

“This will be a learning curve, both on Republic’s side and the town’s side,” Connors said. 

Instead of using multiple types of recycling bins, the town will transition to standardized carts compatible with automated collection trucks. Residents will receive a 95-gallon recycling bin from the town. 

Trash carts, on the other hand, will remain unchanged. Residents will be able to use their current 35-gallon trash carts with the new process. 

Residents will be able to request an additional recycling cart for an annual fee. The details on how to apply are being finalized, Town Administrator Connors said.

Residents may also request a smaller recycling cart. A 65-gallon option will require an application, with seniors and residents with mobility restrictions taking preference. Requests for smaller bins will go into effect later this month or the first week of July, according to Connors.

Collection will still take place each week, with yard waste and bulky items staying on a schedule. Connors did note, however, that the Select Board is debating if recycling collection should be changed to an every-other-week pickup schedule. 

The Select Board is expected to discuss and potentially vote on the contract during its June 17 meeting.