05/01/2026
Dear Transfer Station Patrons,
On April 27, 2026, I presented a recommendation to the Select Board regarding adjustments to Transfer Station fees, proposed to take effect on July 1, 2026. These changes were intentionally modest, as the Transfer Station is designed to be self-sustaining through user fees rather than supported by taxpayer dollars—a model not all communities follow.
Like many services, the Transfer Station has been impacted by rising costs for materials and operations. To ensure that revenues continue to cover expenses—without shifting costs onto residents who do not use the facility—limited fee adjustments are necessary. Even with these changes, the Transfer Station remains a cost-effective alternative to private trash and recycling services. The Town’s goal is not to compete with private businesses, but to provide an option for residents.
This year’s adjustments are minimal, affecting only two items:
- Mattresses: Disposal costs increased significantly in 2025. As a result, the fee to dispose of a mattress will increase to $40, which reflects only the actual cost charged to the Town.
- Large trash bags: The fee will increase by $1.00, from $6.00 to $7.00 per bag.
All other fees will remain unchanged at this time. However, fees may be reassessed in the future if disposal costs rise for other materials such as recycling, compost, tires, bulky or demolition debris, and electronic waste.
Generally speaking, it is also important to note that recycling is no longer a dependable or reliable source of revenue. In fact, some materials—such as glass—now carry disposal costs. While some communities have begun charging fees for recycling and compost, Castleton has made a deliberate effort to keep these services available without additional charges and to maintain overall affordability for users.
Recently, the Select Board approved the purchase of a new scale and a refurbished compactor—both long overdue for replacement. The total cost of approximately $81,000 was funded through the Transfer Station’s capital reserve, leaving a balance of about $40,000.
Looking ahead, the next major capital need is replacing the aging Freightliner roll-off truck used to transport materials to facilities in Vermont and New York. While the Town sets aside $5,000 annually for vehicle and equipment replacement, it takes many years to build sufficient reserves for such a large expense. The current balance is not enough to cover the cost of replacement, even for a used vehicle.
Contracting with a private company for hauling services would be significantly more expensive and is not a cost-effective alternative, as demonstrated by other communities in the region.
An updated list of 2026 fees will be posted on the Transfer Station page of the Town of Castleton website in the coming days. Permits for the 2026–2027 season will be available in June, with no changes to permit fees.
Thank you to all who continue to support and use the Transfer Station. We remain committed to managing costs responsibly while providing reliable and high-quality service to our community.
Respectfully,
Michael Jones
Town Manager
