Garbage collector strike in Watertown, Malden, Arlington and more

Driving the news: Teamsters Local 25 workers for Republic Services in Peabody, Gloucester, Wakefield, Marblehead, Malden, Beverly, Danvers, Arlington, Watertown, Canton and other towns are on strike.

• The workers are demanding improved wages, benefits and labor protections from Republic Services.
• Their contract expired Monday night.

Zoom in: Several of the towns issued advisories telling residents not to put out the trash on Tuesday.

• Marblehead opened its transfer station for free for residents.
• Canton's town administrator said he regretted the "frustration this sudden disruption may cause."

What they're saying: Republic Services officials said they were disappointed with the work stoppage, adding that it has contingency measures planned and entered negotiations "intending to raise wages."

• The company says it already provides competitive wages, health care and pension plans and paid time off.

What's next: Negotiators are at the table. The union indicated this could be the first of multiple strikes against Republic Services nationwide.

• Teamsters General President Sean O'Brien said workers "will do whatever it takes to finally get the respect they're owed."