LYNNWOOD—As Teamsters union workers continue to strike against Republic Services waste disposal, trash collection services have been suspended in portions of King and Snohomish Counties leading to buildups in waste in some cities.
Over 2,000 Republic Teamsters have joined the strike since July 1 demanding higher wages, improved healthcare, and other benefits.
“[We’re fighting for] wages that allow our members to just have a higher quality of life,” Matt McQuaid, a spokesperson for the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, told the Lynnwood Times. “We just want a better healthcare package and be paid wages that are more consistent with the area’s standards.”
Teamsters members in Lacey, Washington, where the strike is currently taking place in Western Washington, make about 13% less than the industry average for other trash hauling companies according to McQuaid…