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DNR says Malden site does not meet transfer station rules; council asked to draft ordinance
Summary
A DNR inspection found Malden's Transfer Station did not meet transfer station requirements and recommended renaming it a 'waste collection site' with limited open hours and tire disposal permitting; Mayor asked staff to draft an ordinance for the July meeting to bring the site into compliance.
A Department of Natural Resources (DNR) representative inspected Malden's Transfer Station after a report that the city was "burning scrap," Public Safety Director Jeff Mitchell reported to the council on June 16. The DNR found that crews were burning limbs from recent storms rather than scrap metal but said the facility's naming and operations triggered regulatory requirements the city does not meet.
According to Mitchell, the DNR representative recommended renaming the site the "Malden Waste Collection Site," limiting open hours (a suggestion to open once a month was mentioned), and requiring a permit for tire disposal. Mayor Denton Kooyman told the council the city should come into compliance because the collection service provides a significant benefit to residents and asked staff to draft an ordinance addressing the name and regulatory requirements for consideration at the July council meeting.
City Attorney Jonce Chidister noted that an existing ordinance that funds the site via a $1 utility bill charge refers to a "Transfer Station" and would need amendment if the name or regulatory status changes. Council did not take a final vote at the June 16 meeting; the matter was sent to staff for ordinance drafting and follow up with DNR recommendations.
Staff said they will bring answers and proposed ordinance language back to council in July so the city can continue offering resident waste collection while meeting state requirements.
