WM, Teamsters Still Negotiating Waste Contract

Patrica-Anne Tom

WM, Teamsters Still Negotiating Waste Contract Reno, Nev. -- Houston-based Waste Management Inc. (WM) officials and Teamsters Union Local 533 garbage workers are continuing discussions over a new labor contract to avoid a possible labor strike in the Reno-Sparks, Nev., area.

According to news sources, about 350 garbage truck drivers, pickup workers and other employees have been working without a contract since April 19, picking up approximately 2,500 tons of garbage per day. The Teamsters represent 250 of those workers.

Reno Disposal Manager Greg Martinelli said he hopes to resolve work rules and safety issues, as well as discuss retirement and wage issues at the next scheduled meetings on Wednesday and Thursday. "We had good sessions last week," he said. "We hope to continue on a progressive path."

Waste Management officials have indicated they would bring in workers from other plants to haul garbage if a strike occurs.