Judge hears from Mass. communities over request to intervene in trash collectors strike

Six towns in Massachusetts, including Gloucester, Beverly, and Malden, filed a complaint against Republic Services in Salem Superior Court, requesting a more effective trash collection method during an ongoing strike. Residents claim the strike has caused significant public health issues, with overflowing bins and inconsistent pickups. Republic Services’ lawyer defended the company, asserting they are doing their best to maintain near-normal service levels despite the strike. Judge Kathleen McCarthy-Neyman questioned the utility of an injunction, pointing out the legal rights of the workers to strike. Beverly Mayor Michael Cahill countered this by stating that Republic, as a major waste hauler, should have the resources to manage the situation better.

Local resident Jodi Machado highlighted her ongoing issues with trash collection, mentioning weeks without recycling service and her persistent efforts to contact officials. The court has yet to announce when it will rule on the injunction, leaving residents in limbo. The situation underscores the challenges faced by municipalities in ensuring public health during labor disputes.