The city of Bellevue says a threatened garbage strike won’t have much affect on waste collection locally.

That’s because Allied Waste – the city’s contractor for garbage, recycling and yard refuse pick-up – plans to hire replacement workers if Teamsters Local 174 decides to picket.

The contract between Allied Waste and the union expires at midnight tonight, and garbage collectors have voted to strike if the two sides cannot negotiate a deal by then.

In the event of a strike, Allied Waste will provide collection to only critical Bellevue customers such as hospitals, schools, and large-volume customers on Thursday.

Service for the remaining customers would be as it is on a holiday, with pick-ups coming one day later for only that week. Up to six “miss trucks” will also do collections of missed items on Saturday afternoon.

Allied Waste is required by contract to fulfill its collection obligations regardless of strikes. The company serves serves 28,398 residential customers in Bellevue.

The company expects normal collection would resume on Monday in the event of a strike.

Customers with questions can call Allied Waste at 425-452-4762.