Regular garbage collection was expected to resume in Lathrop and Stockton this week after Republic services and union workers reached an agreement.

Paul Akinjo has been frustrated by the nationwide strike involving Republic Services.

The mayor of the City of Lathrop voiced his displeasure in a letter to residents Friday regarding the build-up of trash in dumpsters in recent weeks.

“This situation is unacceptable, and I know it has placed a burden on families and neighborhoods across our city,” said Akinjo via social media.

While the City of Lathrop is not direct party to the labor dispute, local officials have been actively monitoring the situation while urging a swift resolution.

“At the same time, our staff has been working around the clock to find ways to adapt and support residents – whether that’s coordinating the Republic to get trucks on the road or making landfill access free to our residents for those in urgent need,” Akinjo said.

Negotiations between Republic Services and the Teamsters – the company and the union had been at a standoff since July 1 when 450 workers went on strike, asking for better wages, benefits, and stronger labor protections.

The strike expanded nationwide with more than 2,000 employees either striking or honoring the picket lines.

“If an agreement is finalized, full service could resume as early as Saturday (July 19). Even then, it may take a few days for routes to normalized as crews work through the backlog of missed collections,” Akinjo noted.

He added: “I want you to know that your city leaders – including myself, our city manager, and the entire team – has been fully engaged since the moment this disruption began.

“We are doing everything within our power to push for action and minimize the impact on our community.”

For updates, log on to www.republicservices.com/municipality/stockton-ca.