Lakeshore Recycling Services Mechanics Unite with Teamsters for Fair Treatment

Mechanics at Lakeshore Recycling Services Join Teamsters Local 673

In a noteworthy development, the mechanics working at Lakeshore Recycling Services (LRS) located in West Chicago, Illinois, have officially allied with Teamsters Local 673. This unification marks the third group of LRS employees to unionize within a short span, enhancing the collective voice and bargaining power of these essential workers.

The new union members have joined ranks alongside more than 50 drivers and heavy equipment operators from LRS who entered into a union in the earlier months of 2025, a move that speaks to a growing trend among LRS workers to seek fair treatment and improved working conditions.

Timothy Custer, Secretary-Treasurer of Teamsters Local 673, expressed his enthusiasm about the newly unionized mechanics, stating, "It's an honor to welcome these new Teamsters to our local. Sanitation workers are absolutely critical to our communities. Now that these mechanics are Teamsters, we can work to get them a contract that guarantees they are treated with fairness and respect for years to come."

The role of mechanics at LRS is pivotal as they are responsible for maintaining the fleet of vehicles crucial to the company's operations. Their work ensures that drivers can safely perform their routes, thereby supporting the health and safety of residents. Having the backing of the Teamsters is expected to enhance their working conditions and secure better wages, benefits, and job security.

Victor Mineros, Director of the Teamsters Solid Waste and Recycling Division, emphasized the growing momentum amongst LRS workers. He noted, "There is a growing movement among LRS workers to secure the strong protection that comes with being a Teamster. We look forward to continuing to grow our ranks at the company all across the country."

Teamsters Local 673 prides itself on representing thousands of workers across various sectors throughout the Chicago metropolitan area. The union has a long history of advocating for the rights and well-being of laborers, and the addition of the LRS mechanics only strengthens their efforts.

This push towards unionization in the waste management industry reflects a broader trend of workers across various fields seeking representation to ensure their needs are met. The power of collective bargaining has been demonstrated time and again, and as LRS mechanics join the ranks of their fellow Teamsters, they become a part of a larger narrative advocating for employee rights and dignity in the workplace.

The local community and the industry alike will be watching closely as Teamsters Local 673 works towards negotiating a contract for these mechanics. The potential benefits are promising, not only for those directly involved but for the integrity and service standards of Lakeshore Recycling Services as a whole.

In conclusion, the decision by LRS mechanics to unite with Teamsters Local 673 symbolizes a significant step forward in labor relations within the waste management sector. By standing together, these workers can advocate for the respect and fairness they deserve, ensuring that their essential contributions to the community are recognized and valued.