Republic Services strike stretches into 9th day as trash — and frustration — pile up

HERCULES, Calif. (KRON) — As a sanitation workers strike stretches into its ninth day, negotiations remain at a standstill between Republic Services and the union. Meanwhile, trash is piling up. In parts of the East Bay, garbage hasn’t been picked up since before the Fourth of July.

In one Hercules neighborhood just off John Muir Parkway, residents are dealing with a mounting garbage crisis. Republic Services has told customers to leave cans out, just in case they can come by and do a pick-up.

But that hasn’t happened for some time now, and people are frustrated. On Wednesday, Hercules resident Kristina Abuda told KRON4 that trash cans haven’t been collected in her neighborhood since before the July 4th holiday.

Around the corner, you can see birds picking at bags, making an even bigger mess. A nearby business park also had overflowing bins and rotten items.

The Contra Costa County Health Department said it is monitoring the situation for any public health concerns. Union workers are demanding better wages and working conditions.

The Teamsters have now joined forces with Republic Services workers nationwide, causing services to come to a standstill. Residents say they have empathy for the workers.

“I get it, I am a union employee, and they should get more money,” said resident Valerie Wong.

Contra Costa County officials said they continue to demand that Republic Services do something and help neighbors and businesses. In the meantime, the garbage just keeps piling up.