UPDATE: Waste Management Extends 'Last, Best' Contract Offer To Drivers

UPDATE, Monday June 11, 10 a.m.: Waste Management has notified Teamsters Local 117 that it has extended its deadline to June 17 for members of the union to vote on the company’s “last, best and final contract offer.”

The offer preserves a $2,000 ratification bonus to recycling and yard waste truck drivers if the contract is accepted, the company said in a press release.

In May union members voted to authorize a strike if a new contract could not be negotiated. The recycling and yard waste drivers’ collective bargaining agreement with Waste Management expired on May 31.

Waste Management’s regional administrative offices , and the company provides garbage, recycling and yard waste collection to Renton and several other eastside cities.

The company said in its press release it was perplexed that union leadership did not authorize a contract vote last weekend. But it added that from feedback it became clear that many employees do not fully understand the contract, resulting in the additional time.

There have been no disruptions in service. For the latest information regarding collection and to see the full press release, click here.

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Original story:

The contract negotiations between Teamsters’ Local 117 whose membership includes recycling and yard waste truck drivers and Waste Management, Inc. (WMI) are on shakey ground.  On May 12, 2012 Local 117 voted to authorize a strike if a new contract could not be negotiated.  The recycling and yard waste drivers’ collective bargaining agreement with Waste Management expired on May 31, 2012.

The City contracts with WMI for residential, multifamily and commercial garbage, recycling and organics collection services.  City solid waste customers are encouraged to stay informed on the progress of the labor negotiations by visiting WMI website at www.wmnorthwest.com/servicedelays. As of June 11 service is on schedule.

It is unclear if a recycling and yard waste service work stoppage will affect garbage service. In the event of a work stoppage, WMI customers who have questions or concerns should contact WMI at (800) 592-9995 or email pnwrsservices@wm.com.

For information about Renton’s contract with WMI call 425 430-6852. Click here for a map of Renton service areas including Benson Hill/Cascade and Vista Annex north of Petrovisky and Maple Valley Roads.