Six Massachusetts Communities Sue Republic Services Over Ongoing Trash Strike

Six Massachusetts communities—Beverly, Malden, Gloucester, Peabody, Danvers, and Canton—have filed a complaint in Salem Superior Court seeking a court order to require Republic Services to resume regular trash and recycling collection amid a 17-day strike by sanitation workers represented by Teamsters Local 25. The strike, which began over demands for higher wages and health benefits, has led to accumulating trash, attracting rats, causing strong odors, and creating public health concerns, prompting support from Governor Maura Healey. Despite mediation efforts, negotiations have stalled with Republic Services accusing the union of withdrawing from talks, while the union claims the company refuses to negotiate further. Local officials and health directors emphasize the urgent need to address the public health nuisances caused by uncollected waste, with some communities also withholding payments to Republic Services due to the disruption. The complaint highlights the failure of Republic Services to fulfill its obligations despite prior assurances of contingency resources, and communities have called for increased interim staffing to stabilize service. State officials, including Treasurer Deb Goldberg and Auditor Diana DiZoglio, have publicly urged an end to the strike, holding Republic Services largely responsible for the ongoing sanitation crisis.