Select Board considers coupons to help eligible residents dispose of household trash

The Harrison Select Board discussed a proposal on July 9 to provide disposal coupons at the transfer station to residents who qualify for financial-assistance programs or meet eligibility criteria, a measure intended to help clean up properties and reduce illegal dumping.

Under the outline discussed, qualified residents would receive a coupon for a half-ton disposal allowance (the working estimate in discussion was roughly $150 per half-ton) to help remove trash and small debris. Board members and staff stressed that some categories of waste (construction debris, mattresses, hazardous materials) would likely be excluded and that eligibility rules and limits per household would need to be developed to prevent abuse.

Supporters framed the program as a proactive, prevention-focused tool for code enforcement: rather than immediately pursuing enforcement and legal action, the town could help residents address accumulating waste. "This would be a stop-gap and show the town is willing to work with people rather than go straight to legal action," a board member said.

Members asked staff to draft a concise program description and eligibility criteria for the next meeting, including budget implications and whether the town would set an annual cap on coupons per household. Staff noted the town could compile a list of contractors willing to assist with pickup for residents who lack vehicles.

Next steps: staff will prepare a one-page program summary and recommended eligibility limits for board review at a future meeting.