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Canaan selectmen discuss regional solid‑waste options as Torrington transfer station set to close
Summary
First Selectman David Barger told the Board of Selectmen that all 21 COG towns must collaborate on a regional solid‑waste plan and that Torrington Transfer Station is scheduled to close July 30, 2026; the board will review NRRA ordinance language and private‑contractor options at a special meeting.
First Selectman David Barger reported at the March 9 meeting that all 21 Council of Governments (COG) towns must collaborate on a regional municipal solid‑waste plan and that several towns are participating in, or expected to join, the Northwest Regional Resource Authority (NRRA). He said the board would review NRRA ordinance materials and contract options from a private contractor, USA, at a forthcoming special meeting.
Why it matters: The board heard that adopting USA’s 5‑ and 10‑year contract materials would eliminate a public‑option approach to solid‑waste collection and disposal, a change that could affect tipping fees, municipal budgets and service arrangements across the region. Barger also reported that the Torrington Transfer Station is now set to close on July 30, 2026 — one year earlier than previously indicated — and that the COG and its legal counsel are addressing the operational and legal implications.
The board did not take a final vote on any ordinance or contract at the meeting. Barger said members will review the NRRA and private contract documents and hold a special meeting to discuss next steps and potential town ordinance language. The minutes do not record debate from other members on the merits of joining NRRA or adopting private‑contract terms.
Also discussed in the First Selectman’s report were related solid‑waste topics: the need to consider tipping‑fee structures, municipal solid‑waste disposal options, and coordination among COG towns. The minutes note that updates from the COG and legal counsel are expected after an upcoming meeting referenced by the First Selectman.
Next steps: The board will review the documents, schedule a special meeting to discuss possible ordinance language and contract terms, and await updates from the COG and legal counsel regarding the Torrington closure and regional planning.
