Exploring the Pomfret-Putnam Interlocal Agreement for Waste Management
- Kathleen Sposato
- Oct 23
- 3 min read
Hello Residents of Pomfret and Putnam!
A new initiative is on the horizon that could change how our towns handle waste management. The Towns of Pomfret and Putnam are considering an Interlocal Agreement to jointly use the solid waste transfer station located at 10 Nora Lane, Pomfret. This agreement spans from 2025 to 2035 and aims to enhance waste disposal efficiency for both communities.
Key Details of the Agreement:
Shared Use and Oversight:
Pomfret will retain ownership of the Transfer Station, ensuring management and regulatory compliance, while Putnam will help with staffing on designated days.
An advisory board with representatives from both towns will oversee operations and policies.
Cost Sharing:
Both towns will share operational costs like licensing and maintenance equally.
Putnam will pay Pomfret a Use Fee of $150 per hour for operating machinery.
Revenue and Expenses:
Profits from recyclable materials will be kept by the operating town. Future plans might include revenue sharing based on population.
Advisory Board Role:
The board will meet twice a year to review budgets and operations, ensuring smooth collaboration.
Use Schedule:
Pomfret has exclusive use on the first Friday and Saturday of each month, while Putnam has the third Saturday, with room for adjustments.
Insurance and Liability:
Each town will handle its insurance and indemnify the other from any claims.
Why This Matters: This agreement is designed to optimize waste management resources and enhance service delivery for residents. It represents a collaborative approach that could serve as a model for other municipalities.
Some residents are voicing some very valid concerns with this agreement regarding the site being used for hazardous waste collections. This means that the town of Pomfret would be responsible and legally liable for the hazardous waste forever. They are suggesting that every resident do their due diligence and research what that means to our town, considering that it is the home to such a site.
What’s Next? Residents are encouraged to review the details, ask questions, and participate in the voting process. Your input is crucial in shaping this initiative.
Actionable Steps for Residents:
Attend town meetings to learn more.
Review the agreement details thoroughly.
Share your thoughts and questions with town representatives.
Alternative Perspectives: While many see this as a beneficial step towards efficient waste management, some may have concerns about cost distribution or operational logistics. It's important to consider all viewpoints.
Curious to know more about how this might impact your community interactions?
🗣️ Be part of the conversation — USE YOUR V.O.I.C.E.
Voters Openly Involving Community Ethics
📍 Pomfret Community School
📆 Monday, October 27 – 7:00 PM
READ THE PROPOSED INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT HERE:
UPDATED 10/23/25 11:03 AM:
I just heard our First Selectman on WINY Radio labeling anyone that comes in to vote against her Interlocal Agreement on Monday night a "Fringe Group" that she "hopes they don't come in on Monday night to try to tear this apart, too". I've said it before, but the arrogance and unprofessionalism of labeling a group of residents who don't agree with you is uncalled for and unethical. How can you lead our entire town, yet shame people for wanting to have a conversation and decide on how they want to vote? Continuously labeling voters that you don't agree with is divisive. Not showing a willingness to hear all sides is not leadership. Pomfret deserves BETTER!
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