PHOENIX, Oct. 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Republic Services, Inc. (NYSE: RSG) announced today that its Board of Directors elected Michael Larson, 50, to serve on the Company's Board of Directors effective October 28, 2009. The Board further appointed Mr. Larson as a member of its Compensation Committee and its Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee.

Michael Larson is the Business Manager of Cascade Investment, L.L.C. and is the Chief Investment Officer for William H. Gates III. Cascade Investment, L.L.C. (which is wholly owned by Mr. Gates) and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Trust own in the aggregate approximately 15% of Republic Services, Inc.'s common stock.

"I am extremely pleased to welcome Michael to the Board," said James E. O'Connor, Chairman and CEO of Republic Services, Inc. "His background will add significantly to our organization."

ABOUT REPUBLIC SERVICES

Republic Services, Inc. is a leading provider of services in the domestic, non-hazardous solid waste industry. The Company provides non-hazardous solid waste collection services for commercial, industrial, municipal, and residential customers through 380 collection companies in 40 states. It also owns or operates 239 transfer stations, 199 solid waste landfills and 79 recycling facilities. Republic serves millions of residential customers under contracts with more than 3,000 municipalities for waste collection and residential services. It also serves commercial customers throughout its expansive service area. For more information, visit the Republic Services web site at www.republicservices.com.

SOURCE Republic Services, Inc.