Board accepts $6,000 recycling grant and discusses transfer-station staffing and hazardous-waste capacity

At the Nov. 19 meeting the Board of Health reviewed two recycling-related awards and accepted a contract for additional funding tied to the SMRP/RDP program, including a $6,000 award for drop-off equipment or a reuse swap shed. A board member moved to accept the RDP contract; the board approved the acceptance by voice vote and agreed to complete required paperwork to receive funds.

The board and staff clarified the RDP paperwork and checklist requirements; staff noted receipt of separate award materials and that funds are contingent on compliance with program rules (including MBTA Communities Act considerations for some grants).

Members also discussed transfer-station operations and staffing. The board said it would reopen a manager listing to attract applicants and considered whether to add another monitor, increase wages, or ask the select board for additional funding if hiring remains difficult. Staff reported the new monitor is filling in and members discussed job duties (vendor calls, deposits, upkeep) and the difficulty of recruiting for part-time hours.

The board reviewed the recent hazardous-waste collection, noting roughly 158 cars served and some confusion about items such as latex paint and mercury-containing thermometers. Members suggested clearer public messaging for future events and discussed whether to extend hours or run a second collection day to expand capacity.

No formal policy changes were adopted; the board agreed to sign the grant paperwork and to continue recruitment and planning for transfer-station operations.