SOUTHWICK/GRANVILLE – On Sept. 21, the Baker-Polito Administration announced that they would be awarding more than $2.3 million in Sustainable Materials Recovery Program (SMRP) grants to 238 municipalities and regional solid waste sites. The SMRP is through the Mass DEP (Department of Environmental Protection).
Locally, Southwick and Granville received grant money to use towards this program, which will help communities increase their recycling, composting, and waste reduction programs.
Southwick applied for this grant annually and was able to secure $5,400.
According to DPW Director Randy Brown, the town has used the money in the past to purchase things like roll-off containers, recycling bins, and new signage at the town transfer station.
Brown is always pleased to hear the announcement that the town is receiving grant money through this program.
“We’ve been lucky to benefit from it every year,” said Brown. “It helps off-set our capital expenses for equipment purchases.”
Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker (left) and Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito. (WNG File Photo)
Karl Stinehart, who is the Chief Administrative Officer for the Town of Southwick, was also grateful for the $5,400 grant.
“The town appreciates the Commonwealth’s commitment to aid in re-use and recycling for our community,” said Stinehart.
Southwick has been involved with the SMRP as the town has had a solid waste handler’s permit in effect since July 13, which coincides with the SMRP.
Similar to Southwick, Granville receives funds for recycling every year, and this time around they have been given $4,200.
Granville Town Administrator Matt Streeter said that the town normally uses the money towards recycling bins and self-composting boxes. Streeter also acknowledged how happy the town is with the grant money.
“We’re a green community, we take our recycling efforts seriously,” said Streeter. “We appreciate working with Mass DEP to continue our efforts and this money will go a long way to help the residents and businesses of Granville.”
