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Council weighs bulky‑waste fee changes and DPW access; residents press for Saturday drop‑offs
Summary
Councilors discussed proposed bulky‑waste fee tiers and operational details for the DPW site, including possible small/medium/large categories, weight vs. size measures, Saturday drop‑offs and clearer guidance for paint and hazardous waste disposal.
The Foster Town Council returned to old business to take up proposed changes to the town's bulky‑waste fee schedule and related Department of Public Works operations. Staff and councilors framed the proposal as an attempt to make fees reasonable while recouping tipping costs for items that cannot be reused or reclaimed.
Councilors and residents highlighted practical questions: How will 'small, medium, large' be defined and who will verify estimated weight or volume for curbside pickup? One resident suggested objective size or measurement thresholds ("A vanity is 2 by 2 by 2") to avoid subjective judgments. Dave Rathbun, speaking for the Conservation Commission, urged the council to consider a monthly Saturday drop‑off window because DPW hours (reported as 7:00–3:30) exclude many working residents: "If there was 1 Saturday a month where you could have the gates open... the first Saturday of the month from 8 to 11," Rathbun said, arguing more accessible hours would reduce illegal roadside dumping.
Council and public also discussed which items DPW can accept free (metal bed frames, appliances that are scrapped) and which require special handling (paint disposal via Eco Depot, propane tanks that must be empty). Staff agreed to consult models used by nearby towns and to return with clearer, 'idiot proof' guidance and categories for small/medium/large loads and to coordinate with DPW on hours and practical implementation.
Council members emphasized the need for a simple, enforceable scheme so curbside pickup staff and DPW can estimate fees fairly without undue administrative burden. The issue was left pending; staff were asked to report back with a refined fee schedule and operational plan.
