Trash and recycling services for Swampscott residents will resume on Monday, and for next week only, blue overthrow bags will not be required.
“If your trash is placed out on the curb already, please take it back onto your property until your next collection day,” the town stated in a press release to the Swampscott Tides. “Do your best to utilize any extra barrels you may have to store the extra trash bags, or store in a garage or shed, if possible, to reduce the attraction of wildlife and rodents.”
The town was notified Tuesday that Republic Services workers had gone on strike, halting trash pickup for the week. Union members at the waste collection service are picketing on the North Shore for increased wages, better benefits and more labor protections. Teamsters spokesman Matt McQuaid said he could not disclose specific union demands at this time.
Republic Services Media Relations told the Swampscott Tides that it provides “our Greater Boston employees with competitive wages, an industry-leading health care plan, pension plan and a generous time-off and holiday plan.”
The company also claimed that the Teamsters “did not match our willingness to achieve a new contract.”
“The company presented terms that addressed the union’s stated interests and could have resolved the contract dispute,” Republic Services Media Relations said. “Republic Services believes the union is putting its own self-interests ahead of its union members and the communities they serve.”
Republic Services also alleged “reckless behavior of the Teamsters,” including harassment of drivers and tire slashing. The Swampscott Tides has not been able to confirm any such occurrences.
The strike is affecting residents, businesses and construction sites in 20 North Shore communities. McQuaid warned the strike has the “potential to spread far and wide,” noting a similar action underway in Illinois against the same company.
“We remain committed to reaching a fair agreement that benefits our employees and our customers,” Republic Services Marketing Vice President Kurt Lavery said. “We apologize to our customers for any inconvenience the Teamsters are causing.”
For Swampscott’s trash and recycling services to resume, Republic Services has “pulled staff from other areas of the country.”
Residents on Tuesday through Friday routes will have a temporary option to drop off one large 35-gallon trash bag at the Department of Public Works Yard, at 200 Paradise Road, on Saturday or Sunday between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
This service is available to Swampscott residents only, and a valid ID is required.
“Residents can reduce the amount of their trash by using our free food waste compost bins,” the press release reads. “These bins are located around town for residents.”
Residents are also asked not to put out bulk items with stickers this week.
“Our priority for this week is to collect regular household trash,” the press release reads.
