King County continues safe operation of solid waste handling system during ongoing strike

King County’s solid waste handling system continues to operate safely in the wake of the ongoing strike truck drivers represented by Teamsters Local 117 against Waste Management, and that is affecting more than 220,000 customers across the county.

The County’s eight solid waste transfer stations remain open for residents and business owners who want to haul their own garbage and pay regular transfer station disposal rates, with a minimum fee of $20 (including taxes).

For more information, visit http://your.kingcounty.gov/solidwaste/garbage-recycling/index.asp, or call the King County Solid Waste Division at 206-296-4466, or toll-free at 1-800-325-6165 ext. 64466.

King County has taken steps to ensure that vital solid waste transfer station and landfill operations continue smoothly, while allowing striking drivers to exercise their rights.

Additionally, Public Health – Seattle & King County has conditionally approved extended hours for garbage management by the County’s Solid Waste Division staff at the County’s Cedar Hills Regional Landfill, if needed.

Meanwhile, inspectors with Public Health – Seattle & King County are in the field to assess any potential health-related issues to uncollected garbage. At this time, while the uncollected garbage is inconvenient and unpleasant, it is not a health threat. More information for residents and commercial facilities is available at www.kingcounty.gov/health.

Waste Management provides collection services for residents and businesses in all or part of Algona, Auburn, Bothell, Burien, Carnation, Duvall, Federal Way, Issaquah, Kent, Kirkland, Maple Valley, Newcastle, Pacific, Redmond, Renton, Sammamish, Seattle, Snoqualmie and Woodinville, as well as numerous unincorporated area residents. King County and the cities do not collect garbage, nor are the striking drivers public employees.

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