NEK Waste District Still Concerned About Free Statewide Household Hazardous Waste Rule

LYNDON — The Northeast Kingdom Waste Management District is still concerned about a proposed state rule that would make household hazardous waste disposal free statewide, though state officials appear willing to address some of its objections. At its Oct. 13 meeting, the district’s Board of Supervisors discussed the proposal with Executive Director Chris Thompson. He said he had submitted written comments to the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation and met twice with state staff to explain the rule’s potential effects. The state clarified that waste districts would not have to expand their facilities beyond current permit limits or increase the amount of waste or number of people they serve. Districts could also continue using appointments to manage how much hazardous waste they accept. Those changes eased some concerns, but questions remain about costs and reimbursement.