In February, Boothbay Region Refuse Disposal District may resume sending its trash to a Hampden biomass facility. In 2018, the district along with other Municipal Review Committee members contracted with Fiberight, a Maryland-based clean energy technology business, to accept their waste products. The agreement was for 15 years, but the plant’s opening and continuing operation have been plagued by problems ever since the signing.

Last year, the plant closed due to management problems. The local district is now sending its refuse to a Norridgewock landfill. But during the Dec. 10 trustees’ meeting, Station Manager Steve Lewis reported the MRC may have found a buyer. “Nothing is final, but I’ve been told they are negotiating, and may announce a sale at their annual meeting next week,” he said. The meeting is Wednesday, Dec. 16. 

In other action, trustees reviewed the 2021 district budget’s first draft. Lewis presented a budget seeking an additional 5.39% from the four member towns. In 2020, the members paid $1,318,900. The first draft reflects a $1,390,013 request. This proposal does not reflect funding for a new grinder. During the meeting, trustees directed Lewis to seek pricing for replacing the 15-year old grinder. Lewis estimates a new one would cost over $1 million.

The district has struggled disposing of its wood chips ground by the grinder. MB Bark of Auburn accepts three to five loads per week from the district. Each load contains 30 tons. Lewis has found a second business, RE Energy in Livermore, to accept additional wood chips produced in Boothbay.

Lewis reported he is still working on a proposal to streamline charges for dual customers of the refuse station and Giles Rubbish. “I want a system which is more user friendly for drivers, office staff and customers,” he said. Lewis hopes to present the proposal next month. One change making the refuse district and Giles Rubbish more customer friendly has already been implemented. Lewis announced the district will use Giles Rubbish’s trash flow computer program. “The switch will allow customers to receive one bill instead of two, and pay online,” he said.

Trustees meet next at 5 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 14.