Waterville Valley Select Board Rejects Proposed Condo Dumpster Fee

On August 6, 2025, the Waterville Valley Select Board held a public hearing to discuss a proposed fee for condominium associations using town-provided dumpsters. The proposal, initially raised at a prior town meeting to address perceived fairness issues, sparked significant community feedback, with residents voicing strong opposition. After considering public comments and evaluating the proposal’s implications, the board decided to table the matter, effectively halting the fee implementation (link).

The discussion centered on whether condo associations, which benefit from town-maintained dumpsters, should pay an additional fee for this service. Some residents argued that the proposal deviates from the original agreement, which did not include extra charges for dumpster use. One speaker emphasized that Waterville Valley should function as “one town,” sharing resources equitably, and suggested that condo associations be allowed to return dumpsters to the town if fees are imposed (link). The speaker also requested detailed calculations comparing waste management costs for condo associations versus other areas, highlighting a lack of transparency in the proposal’s financial basis (link).

Further concerns included unauthorized use of condo dumpsters by non-residents, with suggestions for fines or penalties to address this issue (link). Residents also noted additional burdens, such as winter accessibility challenges for dumpster use and the ongoing costs of upgrading dumpster enclosures as mandated by a recent town vote (link). Another speaker, representing a condo association board, urged the Select Board to prioritize community sentiment and abandon the fee, citing widespread resident opposition expressed at prior meetings (link).

The Select Board acknowledged the fairness concerns raised at the town meeting, which prompted the fee proposal. However, they admitted there was no detailed analysis to justify the suggested $5-$10 quarterly fee, describing it as a “convenience fee” rather than a data-driven cost recovery (link). Board members noted the complexity of implementing and tracking such a fee, given that not all condo associations have dumpsters. They also highlighted the financial strain on associations already investing in enclosure upgrades (link). Ultimately, the board concluded that the negative public response and lack of clear justification outweighed the need for the fee, leading to their decision to drop the proposal (link).

The decision reflects the board’s commitment to listening to residents and avoiding divisions within the community. While fairness remains a concern, the board agreed to explore alternative solutions in the future if needed, ensuring any new proposals would involve further public input (link).

The public hearing concluded with the board tabling the matter and adjourning the meeting.