Recycling Committee Meeting

Dublin Recycling Committee

Minutes of the meeting 8-25-21, 6-7 p.m.

Present (in person and via Zoom): Leslie Whone, Jane Holmes, Sheila Morse, Meredith Martin, Rick MacMillan and Tom Kennedy (advisor).

The Select Board has asked Tom and the Recycling Committee to look into pay per throw (PAYT) as a cost-cutting tool. Members of the Committee voiced some concerns about PAYT, including its impact on smaller households and less affluent families and the fact that Dublin’s historically good rate of compliance might mean that we would see less of an improvement in compliance than some towns.

In discussion, the Recycling Committee explored some of the other causes of increased hauling costs. One concern is increased lack of compliance with the recycling mandate on the part of some residents. Tom examines some bags that seem to include recyclable materials and he often finds cans, bottles and recyclable paper in the bags. When those responsible can be identified he charges $5 per bag. Also, there are businesses that use the transfer station, though they are expected to arrange for their own trash disposal. The Recycling Committee wants to meet with the Select Board to enlist their support in improving compliance. Monitoring residents at the compactor could increase compliance but might require more personnel. The staff needs the support of the Board in enforcing the mandate.

At the same time, the Recycling Committee will look into PAYT. The Committee plans to seek input from residents about how to increase compliance and thereby reduce costs.

Respectfully submitted,

Meredith Martin