Douglas Board of Health Reviews 10 Percent Transfer Station Hauling Cost Increase

DOUGLAS -- June 1, 2026, Douglas Board of Health weighs 10 percent transfer station hauling increase and awaits DEP landfill guidance. The board reviewed a proposed three-year hauling and disposal contract at its June 1 meeting showing a 10 percent jump in hauling costs and a 3.85 percent rise in disposal fees, with further increases projected for fiscal years 2028 and 2029; members said the increases will need to be passed on but expressed preference for a multi-year deal over annual renewals. A Teams meeting with two Massachusetts DEP representatives, a consultant identified as Bruce, and town staff member Matt was set for the following Tuesday to discuss three management options for the town's closed landfill, with landfill gas testing also scheduled for June 4. On the public health side, weekly beach water testing has begun at three Douglas beaches, the Blackstone Valley Public Health Partnership is interviewing for a new community outreach position to support existing coordinator Jenna, and the town's Animal Inspector has completed his first full Douglas barn inspection circuit, identifying previously unknown and now-defunct livestock properties across the town.