The transfer station's "pick pile" will remain closed due to insurance liability concerns. Boothbay Region Refuse Disposal District directors made that decision Nov. 13 after consulting with their insurance carrier. Chairman Jody Lewis said he and district officials had made repeated contacts with their insurance carrier about liability questions stemming from the pick pile. "They don't recommend doing it, but they won't tell you not to do it. It's a gray area," he said. Even with the uncertainty, directors discussed making improvements around the pick pile to meet Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards. 

But the understanding of district officials is that wouldn't result in a definitive opinion from their insurance company. "We are talking about spending money while our insurance company is hemming and hawing over the question. We need them to give us a yes or no," Vice Chairman Chuck Cunningham said. Lewis repeated, "that was something the insurance company just wouldn't do."

In other action, Lewis reported the FBI visited the transfer station Nov. 3 to perform a "forensic audit." The FBI began its investigation of the transfer station and Giles Rubbish on March 26. Lewis confirmed the investigation continues, but he had no further updates. "All I can say is they were here. They don't tell us much," he said. 

The directors terminated station manager Steve Lewis June 12 in the midst of the FBI probe. Steve Lewis has appealed the termination decision, but no hearing has been scheduled. "We are waiting for him (Steve Lewis) to give us a date," Jody Lewis said. 

Directors discussed a couple options regarding their ReVision Energy contract. The district is in year 12 of a 20-year agreement with ReVision. Last year, the district removed one of two solar panels which the company says violated the agreement. Station Manager William Johnson updated directors Thursday on possible options to satisfy contract terms.

He reported the district could purchase the panel for $6,000. This would eliminate paying fees to Revision for the remaining contractual term. Another option is reattaching the panel, but Johnson expressed concerns this wouldn't generate enough power to meet contractual obligations. 

Director Kurt Crosby of Edgecomb requested more to time for assembling "hard figures" on each option before making a decision. Directors tabled the vote until next month. 

Directors meet next at 5 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11 in the business office.