Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Tipping Fees topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Select Board debates steep increase and new tiers for transfer‑station tipping fees
Summary
Board members discussed a major overhaul of tipping fees after being told hauling and disposal costs exceed current charges; proposals included simplified tiers by vehicle type, heaped‑load surcharges, an option to charge by cubic yard, and a possible ban on large trailers.
The Jamaica Select Board spent substantial time reviewing transfer‑station costs and a proposed new tipping‑fee schedule designed to reduce the town’s subsidy of hauling and disposal.
Chair Jessica Pollock opened the policy discussion by citing the town’s disposal and hauling costs: “Our cost to haul is about $225 per ton, and we are collecting 75,” she said, arguing the current flat approach substantially undercuts the town’s expenses. The board considered a simplified tiered schedule with three base prices (a 1‑ton dump truck, an 8‑foot pickup bed and a 6‑foot bed) and higher charges for heaped loads.
Members debated the technical and enforcement implications. Several suggested charging by cubic yard as a clearer volumetric measure, while others said the transfer‑station attendant (Ernie) cannot reasonably measure exact volumes or distinguish many vehicle classes in real time. Board members proposed practical rules: a level‑load definition (materials not extending above sideboards), a surcharge or next‑tier price for heaped loads, and banning large commercial trailers that create variability and enforcement difficulty.
No final vote was taken; the chair said she will draft a formal ordinance and fee schedule for public circulation and another selectboard meeting. The board asked staff to prepare language, implementation timeline and an outreach plan so residents can comment before any fee is adopted.
