Halifax Selectmen Tackle Costly Landfill Repairs Amidst Erosion and Solar Prospects

The Halifax Board of Selectmen meeting focused on the issues surrounding the Hemlock landfill, including urgent erosion repairs and potential solar energy opportunities. The board considered two main repair options, each with financial and environmental implications. As discussions unfolded, the urgency of addressing these issues was underscored, particularly due to climate change and its impact on weather patterns, which could exacerbate the situation at the landfill.

Mike Martin, a senior program manager with TRC, outlined the history and current challenges of the Hemlock landfill, which has been a source of concern for Halifax since 2008 due to ongoing erosion issues. Originating in the 1930s as an open burn dump, the landfill transitioned to municipal solid waste use in the 1970s before closing in 1977. A capping process took place in 2006-2007 under an administrative consent order, but erosion was identified shortly thereafter. Martin emphasized the need for a comprehensive solution, warning against temporary fixes. He stated, “it’s either a big project or it’s that 5,000 cuts,” indicating that patchwork repairs could become a costly ongoing burden.

Two repair options were presented. The first, a limited repair option focusing on eroded areas, was estimated at around $40,000 but was criticized for not addressing the root causes of erosion. The second, more extensive option involved reconstructing the entire side slope, importing clean fill, and potentially expanding the landfill’s footprint for solar energy generation. This option was estimated to cost approximately $1.2 million. Martin pointed out that charging a tipping fee for incoming material could help offset the costs. This approach would also allow the implementation of Best Management Practices (BMPs) to enhance stormwater management and reduce sediment transport.

An invasive Japanese knotweed infestation complicates the situation further, with disposal costs estimated at $400,000. However, Martin noted that pesticide application could reduce this expense to about $40,000, potentially resulting in surplus revenue for the town. Addressing the invasive species could yield a surplus of around $200,000 after costs.

Discussion also touched on maintaining access for equipment to manage the slopes and mitigate future vegetation growth contributing to erosion. Martin assured that equipment access would not disturb the community, using an existing road across from the Brockton store instead of Hemlock Lane.

Beyond the landfill, the board tackled various other topics, including the construction of a solar project and its associated challenges. Concerns about stormwater management, flood hazard zones, and visibility from nearby residences were discussed. The proposal to construct a stormwater berm and a decorative fence aimed to address these issues while maintaining aesthetic appeal.

Financial implications were a recurring theme, with discussions about securing funding for both immediate and long-term repairs. A donation of $20,000 from a local entity helped with engineering work, yet comprehensive solutions required more substantial funding. The board considered making a capital request at the upcoming town meeting to secure funds for initial repairs, projected between $30,000 to $50,000.

Public engagement was another focal point. Acknowledging a disconnect between the board and the public, members expressed concern about a general mistrust towards local government. Efforts to improve engagement included hosting informal meetings in community locations and increasing board members’ visibility at local events. The board expressed the need for a more centralized source of information to enhance communication with residents.

In terms of financial management, the board discussed the town’s electricity procurement strategy. Halifax secured a rate of 15.17 cents per kilowatt hour, which, while higher than previous rates, was still better than the average rate in the largest state aggregation. This strategy saved the community $500,000 over the past five quarters.

The meeting also addressed the issue of public health services, discussing the employment of a new public health nurse funded through a state grant. Concerns about public health and safety were raised, particularly regarding the management of communicable diseases and educational campaigns about ticks and mosquitoes. The nurse’s dual role as a member of the Conservation Commission required approval as a special Municipal Employee.

Note: This meeting summary was generated by AI, which can occasionally misspell names, misattribute actions, and state inaccuracies. This summary is intended to be a starting point and you should review the meeting record linked above before acting on anything you read. If we got something wrong, let us know. We’re working every day to improve our process in pursuit of universal local government transparency.
Town Administrator:
Cody Haddad
City Council Officials:
Naja Nessralla, John Bruno, Jonathan H. Selig

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