Selectboard sets transfer-station tonnage rate at $2.00 after extended debate

The Fair Haven selectboard voted to set the transfer-station tonnage rate at $2.00 per ton after a lengthy debate about covering operating costs and avoiding customer defections to private haulers. The motion to set the rate at $2.00 was moved and seconded and carried by voice vote; Chair (speaker 2) closed the vote by saying, “The ayes have it.”

Board members and staff laid out competing goals: some argued for a larger increase (a $2.40 proposal that was later rescinded) to cover roughly 80% of operating expenses, while others urged a more modest rise to avoid pushing users to competing facilities. One member summarized competing considerations: “There’s going to be a rate where we hit the sweet spot where we don't lose too many folks, yet we raise enough money to cover as much expenses as possible,” (Committee member, speaker 2). Staff noted hauling and contractor fees have risen since the new contract took effect July 1, 2025, making current revenue short of total costs.

The board’s discussion referenced local comparators: Castleton’s published rate was cited around $1.80 per ton, which some members used to argue for a lower increase. Operational issues — including how vehicles are sorted on the scale, whether contractors separate metals on-site, and how frequently haulers pick up partially full loads — factored heavily into members' votes. Officials said they will monitor revenues and return to the question if the $2.00 rate does not sufficiently reduce the town subsidy.

What happens next: the board directed staff to track changes in transfer-station revenues and customer behavior under the new rate and to report back at future meetings so the board can reassess whether additional adjustments are needed.