SOUTHWICK/GRANVILLE – Rep. Nick Boldyga and Sen. Don Humason announced on Tuesday that local communities have received funding for the Massachusetts DEP (Department of Environmental Protection) Recycling Dividends Program.
Southwick has received $6,000 while Granville is receiving $4,200.
Southwick DPW Director Randy Brown. (Photo courtesy of Greg Fitzpatrick)
“I’m happy to see our district awarded these important grants to help improve recycling services and green energy,” said Humason. “These funds will assist local efforts to promote cleaner communities and neighborhoods.”
“I’m glad our district is being recognized and rewarded for its efforts to promote green communities,” said Boldyga. “These funds will ensure they can continue to recycle and promote a green community.”
Using policies and programs to promote reuse, recycling, and waste reduction, the Recycling Dividends Program rewards communities who follow the policies. Some towns and cities in the program can earn RDP payments, and have to reinvest the money in the program, including aspects like new recycling bins, public outreach, collecting difficult items to recycle, and more.
Southwick DPW Director Randy Brown continues to look for ways to implement new programs since Mass DEP is always trying to increase the intensity of the program.
“They’re trying to raise the bar, so every year we try to include more programs to promote recycling,” said Brown.
In the past, Brown has used the RDP funding to purchase items for the town transfer station, roll-off containers, recycling bins, and signage.
“Every little bit helps and we’ll put those grant funds in good use,” said Brown.
Granville Town Administrator Matt Streeter echoed Brown’s thoughts and sees the funding as an opportunity to implement public outreach programs in town and buy new recycling bins.
“The money is always welcome,” said Streeter. “I want to thank the DEP and our legislators for continuing our program.”
