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Hampton board warns DPW staffing shortfall could force cuts to recycling and Transfer Station services
Summary
Town Manager James Sullivan and DPW leaders told the Select Board the department is down roughly 10 of 40 positions, prompting discussion of reduced recycling pickup or Transfer Station days; Board asked Finance for cost figures and heard public comments urging alternatives to reduce tipping fees.
The Hampton Select Board heard Tuesday that the Department of Public Works is operating with about 10 fewer employees than its 40‑person roster, a shortfall town officials said could force reductions in routine services.
“On a daily basis Dir. Hale and her senior team are faced with prioritizing the important tasks,” Town Manager James Sullivan told the Board, saying health and safety work would be prioritized and convenience or quality‑of‑life services would be last. Board members and staff discussed reducing recycling pickup and cutting back Transfer Station days if staffing shortages continue.
Public commenters pressed the Board on solid‑waste options. Charlie Preston said the town should consider stopping curbside collection of glass, cardboard and aluminum to reduce tipping fees. Regina Barnes Player, a former Select Board member, recommended outsourcing collection and charging users directly, and asked the Board to consider the financial and labor implications of current policy.
Finance Director Kristi Pulliam said the Finance Department is compiling “rough numbers” on the cost impacts and that the Board should await that analysis before making policy changes. The Board instructed Finance to gather figures to clarify the fiscal effect of any change to collection practices.
The discussion unfolded against broader financial reporting presented at the meeting: Pulliam reported May revenues of $3,689,929 and noted certain line items were above or below a 41.67% year‑to‑date target; the Board accepted the May financials. Several Select Board members emphasized that any change to routine services would require careful budgeting and public notice.
The Board did not take formal action on service reductions at the meeting; members said possible changes would be preceded by further study, numbers from Finance, and public discussion.
