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Commission hears municipal-waste committee update; BigBelly compactors and transfer-station changes discussed
Summary
Committee members reported ongoing research into replacing the town trash truck with transfer-station compaction and alternatives for condo associations, including BigBelly solar compactors; members asked staff to gather comparative cost and operational data before any service change.
A municipal-waste committee member briefed the Conservation Commission on efforts to reduce costs and improve efficiency in Waterville Valley's trash service, describing options that include placing a compactor at the town garage and exploring use of BigBelly solar compactors for condominium associations.
The committee member said the committee is still gathering data and cautioned that no decision has been made. "BigBelly is a solar powered compactor that may not work for the associations, but we have to research," the member said, adding that associations may face upfront costs to rebuild dumpster corrals and pads. Commissioners raised operational questions — whether BigBelly units are bear-proof, how units would be emptied, and whether associations could contract private haulers — and several asked the committee to return with numbers showing truck, repair and manpower savings compared with the current system.
Separately, commissioners discussed a recurring pond and dam problem that contributed to an aerator motor burning out; some members argued the mountain side should pay for repairs beyond the elevation the town is responsible for, and the select board is said to be addressing those responsibilities. The committee agreed to provide detailed cost estimates and options at a future meeting so commissioners and the select board can weigh service changes, potential impacts on transfer-station hours, and how to avoid long lines or permit issues during peak weekends.
