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Meredith to pilot styrofoam recycling and approve cigarette receptacles at docks
Summary
The Selectboard agreed to pursue a styrofoam recycling pilot (with Rotary and Gilford partnership) and approved purchase of three cigarette receptacles for town docks and Hesky Park to reduce litter; a larger pilot is planned for fall 2026.
The Meredith Selectboard discussed multiple DPW operational initiatives on June 22, including a proposal to pilot styrofoam recycling and a separate approval to buy cigarette-butt receptacles at waterfront sites.
Harry Reichlen of the Meredith Rotary Club, who has run quarterly styrofoam collections for two years, said events typically yield about 5–7 cubic yards per collection and proposed placing permanent bins at the transfer station. He said bins cost about $3,000 each and the Rotary would likely fund bin purchases; the town would supply reusable collection bags and handle transport to Gilford for compaction. DPW Director Craig Hale said the town should run a pilot beginning in fall 2026 and continue through summer 2027 to gauge intake and staffing needs.
Separately, Director Hale proposed adding three cigarette receptacles — one on each side of the docks and one near the pavilion at Hesky Park — and installing signage to discourage littering. Selectperson Jeanie Forrester moved to purchase three units at $133 each and the board approved the purchase unanimously.
The Selectboard asked staff to return with a fuller plan for the styrofoam pilot, including staffing implications and cost-sharing arrangements with community partners.
