Seattle's trash pickups stay on track as strike hits suburbs

Seattle's trash, recycling, and compost collection remains stable amid a garbage strike affecting neighboring areas. Republic Services announced that waste collection has been suspended in cities like Kent, Covington, and Bellevue, as well as unincorporated King and Snohomish counties. Around 2,000 workers nationwide are participating in the strike, with about 350 union members in Washington, according to Teamsters spokesperson Matt McQuaid. Teamsters General President Sean M. O'Brien criticized Republic Services, alleging that the company underpays its workers and threatened to escalate actions if their demands are not met.

In Seattle, city contractors WM and Recology continue to collect waste, assuring residents that their services will not be disrupted. Customers in affected areas will have their waste collected on the next scheduled service day, similar to responses during weather disruptions. Residents of Seattle are encouraged to set out their bins as usual, while those outside the city are advised to check with their service providers. This strike highlights ongoing tensions between waste management companies and their employees regarding pay and working conditions.