Stockton, CA – The San Joaquin County Board of Supervisors approved emergency measures to help residents clear the backlog of household waste as Republic Services reached an agreement to end its labor strike and restore regular trash collection. Thanks to the Board’s response, residents will be able to drop off residential trash free of charge at the County landfill and transfer station. The temporary waste voucher program will be available through Sunday, July 27, 2025, to support residents as full service resumes.
The service disruption was the result of a labor dispute at Republic Services, the County’s contracted trash hauler, which has been operating at just 15–20% of its normal capacity. Districts 1 through 4 have seen widespread missed pickups and delays, impacting thousands of homes. While Republic Services has announced the immediate resumption of regular service, they have cautioned that existing backlogs could result in continued delays for up to a week in some areas.
“I called for this public meeting because we need solutions now, and I am thankful that we were able to offer immediate relief for our residents, even as services are set to resume” said Supervisor Mario Gardea, who requested the special meeting.
Board Chair Paul Canepa emphasized the urgency of the issue: “The disruption may be over, but many of our residents still have overflowing trash that needs to be dealt with now. This program gives people a chance to catch up and keep their homes clean and safe.”
Supervisor Sonny Dhaliwal echoed the public health concerns: “We know that piled-up trash is a health risk, and we are acting swiftly to protect residents in every corner of the County, including French Camp, while services are restored to normal.”
“At today’s meeting, I was looking for immediate action to help our residents. I appreciate our staff working to accomplish several options for residents as service returns,” added Supervisor Robert Rickman.
“I did not come to this meeting to sit on my hands – I came to demand action,” said Supervisor Steve Ding. “I fought to make sure North County families have a nearby drop off site. They should not have to drive 30 minutes just to get rid of their garbage. We are stepping up where Republic has failed. To provide immediate relief, the Board authorized the use of the County’s Solid Waste Enterprise Fund to cover the estimated $6,000-per-day cost of the temporary waste voucher program. However, the Board also directed staff to actively seek reimbursement from Republic Services to offset County Board of Supervisors expenses. Republic Services says it is resuming operations right away, but the existing trash backlog means pickup delays of up to a week are still possible.
Residents can receive vouchers directly at the landfill and transfer station locations. A name and address will be required to verify that the service is limited to San Joaquin County residents. You can also click link to print and prepare a copy of the voucher to present to scale house cashiers at county refuse disposal facilities: Free Disposal Voucher - Labor Dispute.
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