UPDATE: The ongoing Republic Services trash strike has entered its second week, leaving Fremont residents grappling with mounting frustration and overflowing garbage. As the situation worsens, the city announces that additional garbage truck drivers will return to the streets starting Tuesday, July 15, 2025, to address the accumulating waste.
Despite the welcomed news of increased garbage collection efforts, residents are still feeling the heat of the strike. Union members are demanding higher wages and improved benefits, with negotiations ongoing as Republic Services claims they are making progress. The company is set to meet with union representatives again today.
With the trash situation reaching critical levels, the city of Fremont is prioritizing pickups for those scheduled on Wednesdays. However, there remains no clear timeline for when the blue and green bins will be collected, leaving many residents anxious. “All of our trash cans are full. We’ve built up just in the process of packing for moving,” expressed Fremont resident Annalee Nagami.
Another resident, Al Hernandez, added, “We don’t like seeing garbage all over the place. It stinks. And so, yeah, it’s an inconvenience for sure.”
As frustrations grow, residents are resorting to dropping off their trash at a local recycling center, leading to long lines that start forming as early as 6 AM. The San Mateo County Board of Supervisors President, David Canepa, is demanding immediate resumption of trash pickup, highlighting the severe health risks posed by uncollected garbage, including the spread of pests and disease.
“Families shouldn’t have to live next to rotting waste while a multi-billion-dollar company sits idle,” Canepa stated, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
The City of Fremont has urged residents to practice patience if they decide to drop off trash, as the lines at the recycling center are expected to be extensive. Residents are encouraged to stay informed as the city works to alleviate this pressing issue.
As the strike continues, the situation remains fluid, and residents are advised to monitor updates closely. The community’s health and safety are at stake, making this a critical issue for all Fremont inhabitants.