Saugus selectmen send message to Wheelabrator

SAUGUS – The Board of Selectmen voted 5-0 to formally adopt a policy stating it is collectively opposed to the expansion of Wheelabrator, a waste-to-energy facility along the Marsh Road on Route 107.The board also opposes any additional forms of combustion of solid waste that will yield additional air and ash emissions.The article was written for a special Town Meeting last November, and selectmen took it up again Wednesday.As a next step, the board intends to communicate the policy to the town?s state delegation, the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection, and the Saugus Board of Health.Michelle Firmbauch Nadeau, senior manager of public affairs at Wheelabrator, said following the meeting that the company is committed to compliance with stringent government permits and standards established to protect both health and the environment.Nadeau said Wheelabrator looks forward to continuing the conversation.?We look forward to the opportunity to meet with the board at its earliest convenience to discuss options currently under development for future ash management, on- and off-site alternative renewable energy, and local environmental revitalization and job creation projects, which offer the potential for significant environmental and economic investments including the concepts outlined in our letter,” Nadeau said.The company sent the letter to selectmen, expressing hope to initiate discussion on some of its suggestions on how to manage ash, revitalize the town?s environment and create jobs.Residents and selectmen explained why they oppose the expansion.Selectman Jeffrey Cicolini read the policy and explained why he can?t support the concept of additional expansion.?How do you put a price tag on health?” Cicolini asked.Residents and other interested parties said they are concerned with the environmental impact and health issues they feel the project might cause.?I along with my constituents oppose any expansion to the facility,” Revere City Councilor John Powers said.Martin Costello said Saugus is left with a dangerous situation if they don?t address it now.?After a 40-year battle, we?re at it again,” Costello said.However, Nadeau said, “Our facilities provide substantial environmental benefits to the local community including safe, clean, renewable energy generation, greenhouse gas reduction, reliable post-recycled household waste disposal, metals recycling as well as conservation of critical areas such as the Rumney Marsh and the 200-acre Bear Creek Wildlife Sanctuary, which is certified by the Wildlife Habitat Council as a Wildlife at Work and Corporate Lands for Learning location.?As one of the largest bird-migration staging areas on North Shore, Wheelabrator?s wildlife sanctuary is home to nearly two dozen bird species labeled as endangered or threatened.We are also committed to providing millions of dollars in local jobs and support of local goods and services as a good neighbor. We also make significant contributions to local civic and environmental causes, enhancing local quality of life,” she said.