Marlborough selectmen table DEEP SMM grant decision after residents raise concerns about WasteZero program

Susan McFarland, chair of the Marlborough Board of Selectmen, moved on a DEEP Sustainable Materials Management (SMM) grant proposal after a lengthy public comment period raised doubts about a proposed WasteZero pay‑per‑bag program.

Multiple residents spoke during public comment against the WasteZero program and the Blue Earth pay‑per‑bag proposal, expressing concern that the consultant model would not benefit Marlborough. Speakers included Hal Whitney, Nick Oren, Tom O’Connell, Beth Lander and several other residents and community members who said they had experience with waste programs in other towns. The meeting record notes several commenters urged caution and questioned whether the program as pitched would serve Marlborough residents’ interests.

On the agenda as “CT Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) Sustainable Materials Management (SMM) Grant,” the item also included authorization to engage WasteZero as a program consultant. Board members debated the proposal: Anthony Bratz and Louise Concodello said they did not see a clear benefit, and the board expressed a general consensus that the town should not proceed as presented. John Rizza suggested residents who spoke with relevant experience volunteer to work with the Board and Town Manager to explore alternatives.

McFarland asked whether the grant could be modified to reallocate funds; Town Manager David Porter agreed to research possible modifications and report back. With those concerns outstanding, McFarland moved to table the SMM grant item to the board’s next February meeting; the motion was seconded and carried.

Why it matters: The DEEP SMM grant would provide resources to expand sustainable materials management in town; the board’s decision to delay action leaves the town without an immediate consultant arrangement and requires staff follow up to determine whether the grant award or scope can be changed to address resident concerns.

The board did not vote on an authorization to contract with WasteZero. The item remains tabled pending Porter’s report back to the board at a future meeting.