Township outlines compost-facility improvements, says more planning and funding needed

At the June 2 Lower Paxton Board meeting, Township Manager Mike Gosser provided a detailed update on improvements at the municipal compost facility intended to reduce nuisance impacts and meet permit requirements.

Gosser said the township is focusing on practical compliance measures while evaluating larger capital investments. Short-term steps include maintaining compost moisture at an optimal 40–60 percent, installing a 2-inch water supply line (materials ordered; installation pending coordination), and placing additional 5-mile-per-hour speed signage after speed bumps were removed. The township purchased a tanker truck in 2025 to support water transport and dust suppression; that vehicle is currently awaiting repairs at the county technical school before being placed into service.

Noise mitigation measures have included restored earth berms around grinder operations and a new "do not slam tailgate" sign at the clean-fill unloading area. Three new security cameras have been installed to improve monitoring and to assist staff in investigating permit violations and unauthorized after-hours access. Operational limits—such as restricting heavy equipment operation on Fridays and during periods of elevated wind—remain in place to reduce dust and noise impacts to neighboring properties.

Gosser said the township held a community meeting with adjacent residents where ideas like a sound wall, misting systems, relocating equipment and gate closures were discussed. The manager also said staff is reviewing whether expanding permitted operations into a lower, depressed area of the site could improve sound and dust outcomes.

"Sinking a couple million dollars into this site might not be the most prudent idea if we're not going to be on the site," Gosser said, explaining staff’s caution about large capital investments until alternative operational arrangements and joint arrangements with nearby municipalities are evaluated.

Gosser said staff will provide options to the board and residents in the near future and continues to meet with other municipalities to explore possible combined operations.