Minutes of the Shaftsbury Solid Waste Committee
August 2, 2005, 7:30 p.m., Cole Hall
Present: Bill Pennebaker, Trevor Mance, Karen Mellinger, Forrest Snyder, Michael
Biddy and Christie Coleman
Recycling Study: Forrest referred to information provided by Bonnie Cook, of Northeast Resource Recovery regarding pricing paid for recycled material. They require a minimum of 44 bales of plastic for pick-up. Because of this minimum, Forrest advised that to make the program feasible we might consider partnering with another municipality, such as Pownal. Discussion ensued as to whether Shaftsbury is a member of NERR – do we pay dues? If so, we could perhaps ask representatives of NERR to come “educate us”.
Christie reported that she is still in the process of researching what resources and organizations might be available to a small community such as Shaftsbury.
Landfill Closure: Bill updated the committee on the ongoing efforts with KAS and the State regarding the landfill closure. He noted that new requirements from KAS regarding permeation specifications of capping material were significantly different from the originals. The new specs may be easier for potential second bidders to meet than the first. He also noted that OMYA material is being considered as a possible capping source, although there are numerous issues involved, such as suitability of the material and transportation costs to get it down from Florence, VT. It was suggested that if the OMYA material ends up being a viable material to use for any contractor, that the town obtain a letter from the proper state officials acknowledging their acceptance of the use of it.
PAYT: The concept of a pay as you throw system was discussed. Forrest presented a draft document he had prepared. Karen suggested that the roadside trash question be addressed in any “white paper”. Forrest noted that his research indicated an initial increase in roadside trash in communities that developed a payt program. However, within approximately 4 months, the quantity of roadside trash was actually lower than prior to the institution of payt. Forrest also noted that payt seems to work best in communities with populations of between 1500 and 150,000.
Trevor urged that if the Town considers a payt system, the landfill accounts be separated out somehow in the budget, so that residents can easily see the payt revenue does not become part of the general fund.
It was noted that when arriving at a per bag fee amount, estimates should not be based on our existing numbers. People will compact more within bags and perhaps recycle more. It will be difficult to figure out costs accurately and ensure that expenses are fully covered by the per bag fee.
Solid Waste Disposal in Shaftsbury: Forrest noted that as a town we should strive for a system that encourages as many people as possible to participate in responsible waste management. Therefore, some cost to the Town makes sense. The group discussed the feasibility of punch cards and allowing a number of “free” items – such as 4 tires/year, one large appliance. It was noted that Pownal allows each resident one day when they can bring a pick-up truck load for free dumping.
Bill advised that the Committee needs to prepare a “white paper” for ultimate presentation to the Select Board by October. He will try to begin work on a draft.
The meeting adjourned at 8:50 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Karen Mellinger