At the last council meeting, a decision was made to remove myself and Ken Murchison who represent the city on the Tri-Community Landfill Board of Directors. This was very disappointing as I have served on this board for more than 6 years and Ken for more than 15. We have both enjoyed this board tremendously as it is very unique and progressive board.
During my 6 years, TCL has been discussing the merger of Presque Isle Landfill and TCL. In fact, the idea and discussions began far prior to my tenure. Over the past year, we have had more serious discussions with the City of Presque Isle as our group collectively saw the value in one landfill/recycling facility for our region. As we move further into the 21st century we need to continue to be progressive with our decisions and mindful of collaboration with others.
When we began the most recent discussion with Presque Isle, we had several goals in mind. First, the merger could not negatively impact the costs to the Caribou, Fort Fairfield, and Limestone taxpayers, in the short term and the foreseeable future.
Second, not one member could ever have total control. This was a top concern of Fort Fairfield and Limestone as they have one less vote at the table then Caribou. Our “trash” forefathers drafted an inter local agreement that has kept unity and fairness to this board’s decision making process for the last 40 years.
TCL has an excellent record in the way it manages itself and conducts business. We have maintained reserves to provide closure and post closure care, one of the largest liabilities of a landfill. In general terms, if the landfill closed tomorrow, there are enough resources to close the landfill and maintain it for years to come, without taxpayer burden.
We, and those before us, have worked very hard to get where we are and none of us wanted to see this effort eroded by a new member. In fact, the City of Presque Isle was very aware of what we have built and had no intentions of barging in and taking over.
Presque Isle has a good, core group of individuals who have worked on this merger closely and understand there is something better for our four communities. We also believe that merging with the Presque Isle landfill is good for our region.
People paying attention to the trash scene downstate understand that our situation could be very different. There is a reason waste disposal is at the bottom of our city budgets and at the top of many southern Maine municipalities.
I’m disappointed that the council chooses to not trust those they appoint as well as to pass judgement without being better informed.
I hope those listening decide change is needed for the City of Caribou.
There are three city council seats up for election this fall and I hope some of the good people in this community step up and redirect this city’s path.
Shane McDougall
Caribou
