Potential Walkout Threatens Trash Collection in City of Tuscaloosa
The city of Tuscaloosa is trying to address the concerns of employees in its Environmental Services Division, which is responsible for the collection of trash, garbage and recycling, to avoid a potential walkout and disruption of service.
The threat of a possible strike was first reported by WBRC Monday, where Bryan Henry reported that the department's workers feel understaffed, overworked and underappreciated.
The garbage trucks were still running Tuesday, though, and city officials said they are working with the employees to understand and address their concerns.
A city spokesperson said the Human Resources department and council president Kip Tyner have met with workers in the Environmental Services Division and are optimistic about that dialogue.
“As our team members understand, we serve the public, and we will always fulfill that commitment," ESD Director Selvin Green said in a statement provided to the Thread. "Since taking over leadership, our team has expressed some legitimate concerns and we are positively working through those as any organization would.”
For more details as they become available, stay connected to the Tuscaloosa Thread.