The News Tribune

Back to Regular Story Page     
SEATTLE: Strike means many won’t get garbage pickup
Last updated: July 27th, 2012 12:27 AM (PDT)

A strike by some truck drivers against Waste Management means no pickups today for more than 200,000 customers in the Seattle area.

The company is telling customers on its website that it doesn’t know how long the work stoppage will last, but it will pick up the missed garbage, recycling and yard waste on the next scheduled service day at no additional charge. If the strike goes beyond a few days, hospitals, day care centers and nursing homes will be the first priority.

About 150 recycling and yard waste drivers walked out Wednesday demanding their pay equal the higher pay of garbage truck drivers. Garbage truck drivers are honoring the picket lines.

Officials from Teamsters Local 117 and Waste Management said they are working through a federal mediator to return to bargaining Saturday. But they haven’t agreed on conditions for that meeting.

The Associated Press

© Copyright 2013 Tacoma News, Inc.