Select Board adjusts transfer‑station fees, narrows gap between resident and commercial per‑ton costs

The Winchester Select Board voted to adjust transfer station fees for 2026, increasing several commercial charges and making a modest reduction to the residential permit fee.

DPW staff (Bob Leos and transfer station manager Nick Parley) proposed modest commercial increases to reflect higher disposal costs and recommended residential permit fees remain the same. Board members reviewed an analysis showing commercial haulers historically paid substantially less per ton than residents. A multi‑member discussion weighed options to raise commercial rates, reduce residential rates, or split changes across both groups to balance equity while maintaining the transfer station’s operating budget.

The board ultimately approved a slate of changes effective Jan. 1, 2026: commercial tonnage and select mixed‑material fees were increased (commercial tonnage set to $190 per ton) and commercial mattress and other material fees adjusted; the residential permit fee was reduced from $340 to $330. The board discussed pilot programs for commercial haulers and how those revenues would affect future permit adjustments.

DPW cautioned the transfer station operates on thin margins and price changes must keep pace with disposal contracts; the board asked staff to provide follow‑up modeling on long‑term impacts and replacement/maintenance costs for fields and recycling programs funded through transfer station revenues.

What’s next: DPW to publish updated fee schedules and finalize implementation details; staff will present updated revenue impact estimates and pilot program results at a future Select Board meeting.