LIVERMORE — The Livermore Select Board addressed concerns regarding brush disposal and the use of equipment at the town’s Transfer Station at the July 30 meeting.

Selectperson Brett Deyling raised the issue after receiving a call from a resident asking how to dispose of brush, which includes woody materials like sticks, trimmings, or branches from trees and shrubs. Deyling noted that he typically burns his brush but acknowledged that this may not be feasible for residents with smaller lots.

“The town has never accepted brush,” said Chairman Mark Chretien. Selectperson Scott Richmond added, “Nobody takes brush.”

Deyling proposed exploring options for residents, suggesting that the Auburn compost facility and the Tri-Community Recycling and Sanitary Landfill in Norway might accept brush. “We should call around and see if there is something we can tell residents so they know where they can bring it,” he said.

The discussion also touched on the disposal of large demolition debris. Deyling recommended sending such debris to the incinerator in Auburn, emphasizing that the town’s Transfer Station should not handle contractor-generated waste. He clarified that accepting brush or demo debris from residents is reasonable, but not from contractors, who typically use their own dumpsters.

Concerns were also raised about the underutilization of the backhoe at the Transfer Station. Deyling emphasized the necessity of using this equipment to assist residents with heavy items, particularly since the demo debris pile is positioned over a wall. The board acknowledged that currently if an elderly person brings a heavy object, there is no way to get it into the dumpster without using a machine.

Chretien, who works in construction emphasized the importance of consulting the standard operating procedure in such situations. Deyling recommended that residents call the Transfer Station in advance to ensure there is space for the item and to confirm if the backhoe will be available along with an experienced operator.

The board acknowledged that the Transfer Station is not licensed to burn brush and discussed potential communication strategies to inform residents about disposal options. Administrative Assistant Carrie Judd proposed updating the town website and placing a bulletin board at the Transfer Station to post town news.

“The brush thing does concern me,” Deyling said. “What can we tell residents?”

The board agreed to continue seeking solutions and informing residents about available options for brush disposal and assistance with heavy items, ensuring they understand the limitations of town resources.