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Townshend approves $65,000 for transfer‑station compacting system after safety and cost questions
Summary
The town approved $65,000 to purchase a compacting dumpster system for the transfer station to reduce haul frequency and address an out‑of‑service compactor truck. Residents questioned hauling/tipping math, weather protection and whether refurbishing an existing truck would be cheaper.
Townshend voters approved Article 18 to raise $65,000 for a compacting dumpster system at the transfer station after the town’s compactor truck failed inspection and was taken out of service.
Select Board members explained the town currently pays frequent hauling and tipping fees for an open dumpster and that a compacting system should reduce haul frequency and overall costs. The vote followed resident questions about whether two covered dumpsters, refurbishing the old compactor, or repurposing equipment from a spare truck might be more economical. The highway foreman noted the truck’s engine and hydraulics remain usable but the vehicle had been infested with rodents and failed safety inspection due to rust and damaged wiring.
Residents also asked whether a roof or canopy would be required for electrical/weather protection; an electrician on the floor said controls would be specified to NEMA‑rated weatherproof enclosures and a covered attendant area could be considered. The meeting papered hauling/tipping fee estimates and discussed seasonal weight from snow in open dumpsters. After discussion the motion passed by voice and a show of hands; the moderator reported the ayes had it and recorded hands for the official tally.
The Select Board will now finalize procurement details, confirm hauling/tipping calculations and address site weather protection as part of installation planning.
