Culbertson council adopts demolition permit, tightens landfill fees and access rules

The Culbertson Town Council approved a demolition permit and fee schedule for materials taken to the town landfill, including demolition debris, concrete and large bulky items.

Under the new rules, demolition permits are required and must be displayed at the landfill gate. Fees were set at $100 for 0–500 square feet, $150 for 501–1,000 square feet and $250 for 1,001–2,000 square feet; the permit is valid for a maximum of 10 working days. In an emergency, trees and branches may be taken to the landfill on nonregular days for $25 per truckload.

Lynn Labatte, who reported to council on landfill operations, presented survey and hours data showing the new facility’s running costs were higher than earlier estimates; the council said the permit and fee structure would help align user costs with operating expenses.

The council also agreed to limit acceptance to Group II and III wastes, to prohibit liquid or semi-liquid wastes including septic pumpings, and to publish landfill hours in meeting minutes and notices. The town indicated it will post a ‘no Sunday openings’ policy on landfill signage.

The permit form adopted by the council requires sign-offs from utility providers (for gas and electricity disconnection), a paid landfill fee receipt and site-specific start/termination dates. The ordinance language and permit form state the owner or contractor must exhibit the permit at the landfill gate, and the council directed attorney staff to convert motions into ordinance form for publication and enforcement.

The decision follows a period of intermunicipal coordination with neighboring Froid and Bainville, which joined Culbertson in agreeing to rate changes to cover true operation and reclamation costs at the new landfill.