Teamsters Union Gains Victory with Arkansas LRS Workers at Mayflower Landfill

In a notable triumph for labor organization, a group of heavy equipment operators at Lakeshore Recycling Services (LRS) in Mayflower, Arkansas, recently voted to join Teamsters Local 373. This significant achievement marks the second successful unionization effort by the Teamsters at LRS in a mere month, following the formation of a unit of 46 drivers in Wauconda, Illinois. The Teamsters Union now represents hundreds of workers from LRS across the United States.

Justin Seigrist, an LRS worker and new member of Local 373, voiced his enthusiasm about the union's impact, stating, "It feels great to be part of this win for the Southern Region. I hope what we've done here sparks a movement for more people in Arkansas to exercise their right to unionize."

Lakeshore Recycling Services operates as a solid waste management company, catering to various communities nationwide. The five workers who successfully organized at the Mayflower landfill utilize heavy machinery to effectively manage waste disposal operations. Their decision to unionize stemmed from a desire to secure equitable working conditions and a robust contract.

Stacy Fox, President of Teamsters Local 373, commended the workers for their determination during the organizing campaign. "These workers showed real grit in this organizing campaign," Fox said. "This small group proved their strength during this fight. With support from the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, we look forward to continuing our efforts to negotiate a solid labor agreement on their behalf."

This landmark situation represents the first instance of LRS workers in Arkansas joining the Teamsters Union, emphasizing the importance of solidarity in labor relations. The drive among these workers illustrates a growing trend of unionization in various sectors and serves as inspiration for others looking to establish their rights in the workplace.

Chuck Stiles, the Director of the Teamsters Solid Waste and Recycling Division, expressed pride in the workers' commitment to their cause. "The progress we've been making at LRS shows that businesses can really work productively with unions," Stiles said. He expressed his admiration for the workers’ resilience throughout the organizing fight and assured them of continued support in achieving a fair contract.

Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters is a major force in advocating for labor rights, representing approximately 1.3 million dedicated workers in the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. The Teamsters have a longstanding commitment to ensuring fair treatment and representation for workers in various industries.

As the labor movement continues to gain momentum, the victory at LRS showcases how collective action can yield positive outcomes and inspire further engagement among workers nationwide. For more information about the union and its efforts, interested individuals can visit Teamsters.org and follow them on social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook.