120 Sanitation Workers Join Teamsters Local 59 for Better Contract

Sanitation Workers in Massachusetts Seek Improved Conditions through Unionization

(WEST WAREHAM, Mass.) – In a significant move towards securing better working conditions, 120 workers at Reworld-SEMASS have opted to join the Teamsters Local 59. These employees, including auxiliary operators, equipment operators, loader operators, and rail tippers, aim to negotiate for enhanced pay and benefits under a strong union contract.

"I voted to join the Teamsters because I want Reworld to be a place where all workers feel they are supported — a place that prioritizes safety above all else, invests in universal training, and guarantees competitive and fair wages across the board," expressed Nick MacDonald, an auxiliary operator and newly inducted member of Local 59. "People used to be proud to say they work at Reworld-SEMASS. With the Teamsters supporting us, we’re going to get back to having that pride at our workplace again."

Located in West Wareham, the SEMASS Resource Recovery Facility is pivotal in servicing nearly 40 communities across Cape Cod, Mass., effectively diverting over a million tons of waste from landfills.

George Belanger, Secretary-Treasurer of Local 59, remarked, "The solid waste industry is difficult and dangerous. Reworld workers deserve strong union representation, and Local 59 is excited to provide that to them. We proudly welcome these 120 workers into our ranks and look forward to working with them to achieve the contract they have earned."

Teamsters Local 59 is known for representing a diverse workforce across Massachusetts. More details can be found by visiting teamsters59.org.