NVCOG highlights waste programs: household hazardous waste event, state grant round and regional compost effort

NVCOG staff reported solid turnout for recent household hazardous waste collection and briefed the board on an expanded state grant round and regional composting support.

Thomas thanked the borough of Naugatuck for hosting the April 12 household hazardous waste event and said staff collected 783 carloads of paint and hazardous waste. The next hazardous waste collection will be held July 26 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at John Trumbull Primary School in Oakville, and staff will circulate advertising materials to participating municipalities.

Christine reported that Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection has announced a new sustainable materials management waste reduction grant round with applications due June 27. The program’s scope has expanded and will not fund pilot or temporary programs; applicants must demonstrate a logistical or financial plan for long‑term maintenance and cannot use funds to comply with existing law. Christine said the available pot is approximately $7,500,000 and that NVCOG will provide grant writing support for towns and prepare a regional application to offset the cost of backyard compost bins at a future sale. She said the regional application and a formal resolution will be returned to the board in June.

A municipal leader asked to be contacted about food waste options; Christine said she would follow up. No board action was required at the meeting on these items.