'Public Health Concerns Are Escalating': Trash Strike Crisis Grows On North Shore, Greater Boston

DANVERS, MA — Municipal leaders from 13 cities and towns across the North Shore and Greater Boston suffering from the effects of an 11-day sanitation worker strike are calling on Republic Services to resolve the work stoppage, citing the pickup delays, lack of communication, escalating costs and public health concerns because of bags piling up on sidewalks and in commercial dumpsters.

"Each day without resolution adds strain to our residents, our businesses, and our municipal operations and heightens the risk of broader public health impacts," said a letter signed by the municipal leaders, made available to Patch on Friday.

• 'All Unacceptable': Mayor Says Trash Collector Failing City Amid 10-Day Strike
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• Garbage Piles Up Around Bay Area As Workers Join Nationwide Strike

Leaders from Beverly, Canton, Danvers, Gloucester, Ipswich, Lynnfield, Malden, Manchester, North Reading, Peabody, Swampscott, Wakefield and Watertown signed the letter that also demanded that Republic Services "act to swiftly expand interim staffing by bringing in additional drivers and resources to stabilize service in the short term."

"Alongside expanded staffing, consistent and reliable communication is equally critical," the letter said. "We understand this is a complex situation; however, since the work stoppage began, we have
received limited and occasionally irregular updates. This has left communities to navigate
shifting schedules and rising resident concerns with little to no guidance.

"A more coordinated, transparent communication strategy — including clear timetables and an expectation of service — is essential to effective planning and public trust."

The leaders cited the mounting financial burdens of emergency responses to address overflow issues and deteriorating environmental conditions from "uncollected trash affecting neighborhoods, parks and waterways."

"We fully intend to seek appropriate compensation for the consequential damages and expenses incurred as a direct result of Republic Services’ failure to meet its obligations," the letter said. "Public health concerns are escalating, particularly as restaurants struggle without a

"These impacts are substantial and must be acknowledged and addressed as part of any near-term response and future planning."

Teamsters Local 25 President Thomas Mari issued a statement on Wednesday calling Republic's claims that it is negotiating daily with striking collection workers "blatantly false."

Republic Services said on Wednesday night that the company is ready to meet with the Teamsters and re-engage on ending the strike, while "we will continue to focus on providing service and doing right by employees." The company accused the union of "instigation, intimidation and criminal acts" during the work stoppage.

The leaders said the disruptions compound the frustration and confusion residents are experiencing and undermine the trust they have built with our communities.

"Our priority remains protecting public health, upholding basic services, and restoring stability," the letter said. "We hope Republic Services shares that commitment and is prepared to take more decisive action in the days ahead."

(Scott Souza is a Patch field editor covering Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem and Swampscott. He can be reached at Scott.Souza@Patch.com. X/Twitter: @Scott_Souza.)