The same playbook used by the AFSCME union to sabotage the city workers’ strike in Philadelphia is now being used by the Teamsters to limit and prepare to shut down the fight at Republic.

Local communities have expressed growing dissatisfaction due to the ongoing disruption of trash collection services, as the Teamsters’ strike against Republic Services enters its third week. Six Massachusetts communities — Gloucester,

Republic Services and the Teamsters have been at a standoff since July 1, when 450 local workers went on strike after the union's contract expired. Teamsters are seeking better wages, benefits and stronger labor protections.

State leaders urge Republic Services to finalize contract with striking Teamsters as uncollected garbage piles up in Massachusetts communities and other states across the country.