Trash is piling up across cities like Watertown, Malden, Arlington, and more after over 400 Republic Services workers walked off the job on June 30. With scorching temperatures, holiday crowds, and no pickups in sight, public health and neighborhood safety are on the line.

These workers—members of Teamsters Local 25—are demanding fair wages, benefits, and protections after their contract expired. Republic Services says it values its employees but has yet to reach an agreement. Meanwhile, families are being told to hold their garbage in 90-degree heat during one of the busiest weekends of the year.

We can’t afford this standoff. It’s not just about convenience—it’s about health, dignity, and respect for the people who keep our streets clean.

We call on Republic Services and Teamsters Local 25 to reach a fair, swift agreement and resume trash and recycling pickups immediately. Our communities need relief—and the workers deserve respect.

Sign if you believe everyone—from residents to frontline workers—deserves better before this becomes a full-blown crisis.