Discussion on the Sturbridge Landfill

Last night, Chairman Steve Halterman raised the issue of initiating some dialogue with the Board of Health and the general public regarding the management of the Sturbridge Landfill/Recycling Center.

This is welcomed news as detailed discussions on the financial management and practices of the Sturbridge Landfill are long overdue. In fact, the Finance Committee has repeatedly issued calls over the last several years (in their annual reports), for the establishment of a "study committee", charged with the responsibility of reviewing current practices as well as possible alternatives. Those "calls" have seemingly fallen on deaf ears, as no detailed public discussion or study has ever been initiated.

Over the last two weeks, this issue has been raised on several occasions by this writer as well as by a member of the Board of Selectmen. Additionally, information has been provided to the Town Administrator, the Board of Selectmen, the Finance Committee, and the Board of Health that can help serve as a general starting point for discussions in terms of landfill/recycling costs, fees, and management practices.

Regardless of the outcome of a public review of current practices, it is imperative that a detailed study highlighting the financial management of the landfill/recycling center be conducted. Such, is the only way that we can be sure we are getting the very best return on our investment. Anything less is a great disservice to the residents and taxpayers of Sturbridge.

One can only be gratified by Mr. Halterman's willingness and commitment to pursuing the appropriate dialogue on this matter. It is the right course of action and the fiscally prudent thing to do.