North Berkshire Waste District Transfer Stations Pass Inspection
ADAMS, Mass. — Transfer stations in the Northern Berkshire Solid Waste Management District have passed their inspections with flying colors.
"The inspections went well, very well actually some of the towns that had some issues last year, they were really impressed by the progress they made," Program Coordinator Linda Cernik reported. "They were happy. There were small infractions but nothing major."
Although there was no quorum last Thursday, Cernik still updated the commissioners who were present on the late October inspections conducted by a third party hired by the state Department of Environmental Protection.
She will share the full report with all the district members.
The waste district covers transfer stations in Adams, Cheshire, Florida, Hancock, Hinsdale, Monroe, Peru, Savoy, Williamstown and Windsor and recycling drop-offs in Lanesborough and New Ashford.
While the transfer stations passed state inspection, they will have to become compliant with the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations.
"That is new and it is coming and I am sure we are going to hear more," Cernik said. "I will tell you more when I know more."
In other business, Cernik said the district will order Earth Machine composters for interested residents.
"We are not in it to make money … and it is a great way to highlight earth day," she said.
The units hold 80 gallons and cost $43. She said they are off the state bid so can be purchased cheaper.
The district will soon advertise the program throughout the region, so residents can register.
Cernik said she also plans to order a 20-yard container for the towns to share. The unit will store plastic and glass.
It will cost $7,277 off the state bid and each town will kick in $500.
"So that is the rate that is the state contract, so I will be ordering it," she said. "We will order that and then invoices will be going to the towns."
Cernik said the district also has begun overhauling its website.
"We are going to do a whole revamp on it and it should be really nice when it is done," she said. "It will take a little time, but it will be done so I am happy."
The commission will review the new website before it goes live.
Tags: waste district,
