Teamsters National Trash Strike Expands, Chula Vista Faces Growing Waste Buildup

Chula Vista is experiencing significant trash buildup due to a strike by Republic Services workers in Boston, with local employees honoring the picket line in solidarity. Despite the growing trash piles and public health concerns, the city has not yet declared a state of emergency but has set a deadline for substantial improvements by Thursday, after which emergency measures may be enacted. Mayor John McCann and city officials held emergency meetings with Republic Services and residents to address the crisis, with Republic calling in drivers from other locations to help mitigate the impact. The strike stems from labor disputes in Boston led by the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, who accuse Republic Services of corporate greed despite the company's reported $2 billion net profit last year. Residents have been taking matters into their own hands to manage overflowing trash cans, while the city has offered to waive landfill fees for residents who wish to dispose of trash themselves. Negotiations between local Teamsters and Republic Services are expected to begin next year when the current contract expires.