South Coast Neighbors United has been sounding the alarm on the dangers of having a transfer station near residences and schools. It’s been a years-long struggle and it’s still going. It was only thanks to their efforts that the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) agreed to a listening session on November 13. I learned about it 2 days before even though the transfer station is planned for my neighborhood. Attention on this issue has been limited and local journalists who do cover it leave key information unstated or unexplored.
The deadline for receiving comments about this project is 4 December and we have not received nearly as many letters as we need. So, I’m asking for your help. I’ve received confirmation that you need not be a resident of Massachusetts. When you visit the link provided, a letter automatically loads but you don’t need to use it.
People can submit that letter, add their own spin on it or replace it with something entirely their own. Diversity of perspectives is a bonus because it highlights that the concerns are many.
Another cool detail. You are not limited in the number of comments. For instance, I submitted a comment at the listening session and one yesterday that reflected my deeper understanding. I may end up submitting a third that is the pre-loaded letter.
In case you didn’t know, transfer stations are in the business of trash. The more trash they take in, the more money they make. There is little enforcement of the regulations that do exist and recycling, which is not nearly as effective as we are led to believe, is not really their goal. We are talking truck after truck carrying container after container of waste. It’s a horrifying reflection of the hypocrisy of our leaders.
Transfer stations do not belong near residents and schools, at the very least. However, the leaders who are pushing this through do not care about the people who live here. They want to exploit this city: its history, its people, its resources, its infrastructure.
On this Giving Tuesday, I’m asking you to please give a moment of your time to visit this link and sign our petition in whatever way works for you. Also, please share the link too.
Thank you for hearing me out. I know I’ve not been in the group long but I’m here to stay.