One item at the meeting was the update on the Swiffer Grant Solid Waste initiative. The grant, totaling $2.05 million, is set to transform the city’s recycling efforts by moving to a single-stream automated recycling collection system. The Department of Public Works (DPW) director announced the acquisition of a new truck and trailer, along with three recycling trucks currently undergoing modifications in Canada. The new recycling program is expected to roll out by early to mid-July, pending final preparations, along with a revised solid waste ordinance to replace outdated regulations from 2011. Approximately $1.4 million of the grant has already been utilized, and reimbursements were confirmed to have been received.

In conjunction with the recycling initiative, the dewatering project at the wastewater treatment plant was also a focal point. This project, initiated a few months prior, involves renovations, including the removal of obsolete equipment. Although unexpected challenges arose during excavation, the project remains on track for completion by early to mid-fall. The director highlighted the financial burden of current sludge disposal methods, projecting costs to reach $850,000 this year, a stark increase from $146,000 in 2016. The new dewatering press is expected to reduce transportation costs and environmental impact by decreasing the volume of water in the sludge, thus reducing the number of disposal trips required.

Another important discussion pertained to measures taken to protect the wastewater treatment plant from flooding, referencing past incidents such as Hurricane Irene in 2011. The installation of flood doors was cited as a key protective measure. The director also addressed inquiries regarding staff training for working near rivers, confirming that while state training programs are not utilized, local conservation regulations are well understood.

Attention then shifted to Resilient Greenfield, a new organization facilitating volunteerism within the community. The group’s efforts to connect volunteers with local opportunities were discussed, with emphasis on using the web-based platform GivePulse. This platform functions as a “dating service” to match volunteers with organizations in need. The initiative aims to involve city departments like the library and DPW to expand participation.

Resilient Greenfield’s launch event on March 29th will feature discussions on climate resilience and community responses to climate crises. The event will include presentations from local officials and students, emphasizing the importance of public engagement in climate-related challenges.

The council also addressed economic development, with updates on the master plan’s Economic Development chapter and the proposed Deerfield Street corridor plan. The director of community and economic development shared insights on combining these plans to reduce costs, with informal estimates ranging from $20,000 to $30,000. The importance of updating the outdated Deerfield Street plan was underscored, considering the changing community dynamics and increased business activity.

Lastly, the council discussed potential collaborations with UMass, including an upcoming visit from faculty and experts on April 3rd to explore partnership opportunities. The potential for leveraging UMass’s expertise and securing grants for the corridor study was highlighted as a strategic advantage.