Cushing selectmen schedule Pay-As-You-Throw presentations amid skepticism over savings

Selectman Martha Marchut said the town will host Bob Butler, a proponent of Pay-As-You-Throw (PAYT), at the Selectmen's meeting on Oct. 10 and again for the Transfer Station committee on Oct. 13 at 6:00 p.m., to explain how PAYT would work for Cushing. Marchut told the board she would publicize the presentations so residents could attend and ask questions.

Selectman Daniel Staples said he remains unconvinced the program will deliver the projected savings, noting past changes such as installing scales did not yield the expected reductions. "I am not convinced that we will save sixty thousand dollars in three years," Staples said, arguing the budget figures are projections rather than proven savings. Marchut responded that a spreadsheet circulated by Monika Magee shows the town's share would decline under PAYT even if recycling rates do not rise, because bag fees would cover other transfer-station costs.

The board voted to invite Butler on Oct. 10 but decided not to hold a non-binding vote at that session. Selectman Heidi Alley recommended the town also invite someone who opposes PAYT so residents hear both perspectives; Marchut mentioned Wayne Luce of Waldoboro as a possible alternate viewpoint. Chairman Alton Grover noted that officials from Waldoboro and others have been giving presentations in the region.

The discussion also touched on where recyclables would go and associated fees. Selectman Laurie Haynes asked whether the town would still owe Lincoln County recycling fees if Cushing sent recyclables to Fiberight; Marchut said the Lincoln County fee remains in the budget and would still apply. No formal action was taken; the town will host presentations and provide residents opportunities to hear proponents and critics before any decision.