Select Board schedules public hearing on brush‑disposal fees; transfer station upgrades progress

The Tamworth Select Board discussed brush disposal at the transfer station on Aug. 7 and directed staff to post a public hearing to consider fee changes, after the transfer station manager and staff argued further discussion should wait until the new recycling building location is finalized.

Staff proposed fees drafted for the hearing are $25 per truck bed, $35 per trailer and $45 if both truck and trailer arrive full; managers said Freedom uses a similar structure. The board agreed to post the hearing at a future regular meeting and to include Richard Doucette and transfer station staff in the discussion. The board noted the manager could retain discretion to set a lower fee for minimal loads (for example, a trash barrel) at the manager’s discretion.

Separately, staff reported transfer station infrastructure work is progressing: the outdoor spigot for running water has been restored, the septic design is pending approval, and welding work on containers has started. Officials said they are continuing coordination on the recycling building siting and that brush disposal procedures will be finalized after the building site decision.

Board members requested staff provide proposed fee language and supporting numbers in advance of the public hearing so residents can comment on a full proposal rather than reopen piecemeal discussions. A motion to post the fee hearing was approved; staff said they will include the item in the next regular meeting packet.