Hartland officials address landfill fire, residents press for notification and safety steps

At a meeting on Aug. 5, 2024, Hartland selectmen and town staff discussed public safety concerns stemming from a July 25 landfill fire and committed to research notification options for residents.

Christopher Littlefield, listed on the meeting roll as town staff, told the selectmen the shredder was involved in the fire and that a representative from Doppstadt had visited the site while the town awaits an insurance company appraiser. When residents asked whether the fire released toxic fumes, Littlefield said the smoke was "yes, similar to a house fire." He also confirmed that lithium batteries can be present in the town's waste stream.

Several residents asked whether the town has an evacuation plan and how people would be notified if evacuation were necessary. Littlefield said the town does not have an evacuation plan required by the Maine Department of Environmental Protection and that "the fire department makes that decision" about any evacuation. He added that the fire marshal is typically contacted only if arson is suspected.

Residents specifically asked whether the town could use a 911 phone-alert system to notify people; Littlefield said he would research notification options and report back to the selectmen. The town also indicated it is coordinating internally and with the landfill operator while insurance and technical reviews proceed.

The exchange in public forum closed with town staff promising to return with more information on notification possibilities and any follow-up steps related to the shredder and fire investigation.