Where it stands as of Wed, Sep 2
The Select Board has approved updated transfer station rules and FY27 permit fees, and voted to remain in a 35-community municipal consortium to negotiate its next regional waste disposal contract. Under the revised regulations, the Department of Public Works clarified Swap Shop operations and excluded child car seats based on pediatric safety advice. The town retains the right to review individual contract terms as consortium negotiations proceed ahead of the current disposal agreement's December 2027 expiration.
- For Select Board Unanimously approved updated facility rules in August and voted in September to continue participating in the regional consortium for refuse disposal negotiations.
Votes
| Date | Board | Motion | Result | Video |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Select Board | To continue participation in the 35-member municipal consortium for the next regional waste disposal contract period. Transfer station fees and regulations | Passedunanimous | 2:29:33 | |
| Select Board | Approve the revised Transfer Station rules and regulations. Transfer station fees and regulations | Passedunanimous | 30:08 | |
| Select Board | Approve Option 2 for fiscal year 2027 transfer station permit fees ($320 for first non-senior permit, $25 for second non-senior permit, $75 for first senior permit, $25 for second senior permit, and $0 for waived hardship permits). Transfer station fees and regulations | Passed5-0 | 1:30:23 |
Every time it came up newest first
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Regional municipal waste disposal contract renewal
DPW Director Bill Cundiff briefed the board on negotiations for the town's refuse disposal agreement with WIN Waste (formerly Wheelabrator) in Millbury, which expires on December 31, 2027. Southborough has participated in a 35-town collaborative led by Walpole since 2006 to negotiate bulk disposal rates. The board evaluated town counsel concerns regarding shared representation versus the pricing power of the regional group and voted to remain in the consortium for the upcoming contract cycle.
- Current disposal contract with WIN Waste in Millbury expires December 31, 2027
- Consortium includes 35 communities, including Worcester
- Estimated legal cost share for consortium negotiations is approximately $2,500
- The board retains the right to review and execute its individual contract terms
Outcome: Voted unanimously to continue participating in the 35-member municipal consortium.
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Transfer station rules and regulations
The board reviewed revised rules and regulations for the town transfer station following collaborative edits between the Department of Public Works and board members. Modifications focused on clarity for Swap Shop use and excluded child car seats based on Board of Health safety guidance. The board approved the updated regulations unanimously.
- Regulations clarify operations and guidelines for the Swap Shop.
- Language regarding child car seats was removed based on Board of Health and pediatric safety recommendations.
- DPW plans to install simplified signage highlighting key rules at the facility.
Outcome: Approved the updated transfer station rules and regulations.
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FY27 transfer station sticker rates and regulations
The Department of Public Works presented updated regulations and fee options for the transfer station to address operational expenses, including temporary outside hauling costs of $62,000 while town staff obtain commercial driver's licenses. After debating sticker pricing for residents and seniors, the board adopted fee option 2 but postponed proposed rules restricting swap shop drop-offs and large items to August 11.
- Primary non-senior household permits were increased from $295 to $320.
- Senior first permits were increased from $50 to $75; second senior permits rose from $15 to $25.
- Second permits for non-senior households remained unchanged at $25, and hardship waivers remain available at no cost.
- Proposed swap shop restrictions on furniture, baby seats, and sports gear drew board debate and were deferred for refinement.
Outcome: The board voted 5-0 to approve the option 2 transfer station sticker fees, while continuing consideration of the operational regulations to August 11.