Unrestricted public access to dump qualified yard waste at the stump dump is a great example of good government.  It’s a great benefit to residents without a lot of cost to the borough.  Charging people $50-$100 for a summer’s permit, even if they just want to dump one truck load, as is the current plan, will undoubtedly push some people to dispose of their yard waste illegally or to burn it.  This means more smoke, more work for the fire department, lower air quality, and more chance of a burn pile getting out of control. The permitting system will cost money to administer.

Like some others, I am adversely impacted by burn piles; the smoke gives me severe asthma, and I must retreat into my house when someone is burning, and sometimes that means all day. I will pay for the use of the stump dump if I have to, but many others may not. I can’t buy permits for all my neighbors.  

The other added benefit of the unrestricted stump dump is that some people forage for firewood there.  Personally, I have retrieved several cords of good firewood from the stump dump, thus reducing waste and saving money. Reducing access will mean less wood to forage.

I think the permit system is a bad plan. The solution is worse than the problem. We are a small town, so let’s stay with rules fitting for small towns. What’s next? Parking meters?

Cindy Buxton