HomeMy WebLinkAbout10-02-2024 Transfer Station minutesMINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE
TRANSFER STATION AD HOC COMMITTEE OF THE CITY OF LA PORTE
Members Present: Mandi Williams, Chuck Engelken, Dave Theiler, Mike Fisco
Members Attending Remotely: None
Members Absent: Robbie McLarrin
City Staff Participating: Corby Alexander, City Manager, Lee Woodward, City
Secretary, Ray Mayo, Public Works Director
The Transfer Station Ad Hoc Committee of the City of La Porte met on October 2,
2024, in the City Hall Council Chamber, 604 West Fairmont Parkway,
La Porte, Texas, at 5:00 p.m.
1. CALL TO ORDER - Chair Williams called the meeting to order at 5:03 p.m.
2. CITIZEN COMMENT (Generally limited to five minutes per person; in accordance
with state law, the time may be reduced if there is a high number of speakers or
other considerations.)
Chris Coughran was permitted to give comment and ask questions in item 3.
3. COMMITTEE CHARGE AND DISCUSSION
The Committee was charged as follows:
Purpose: To establish an ad hoc committee to investigate the feasibility,
design, location, and financial implications of building a garbage transfer
station in the city of La Porte. The committee will evaluate various aspects
of the proposed project, including economic impact, community benefits,
environmental sustainability, and design aesthetics. It is necessary to
assess the feasibility, optimal location, potential benefits, cost implications,
and impacts on staffing levels and equipment usage associated with
establishing a garbage transfer station; and an ad hoc committee can
provide a focused and thorough examination of these factors, engaging with
relevant stakeholders and experts to ensure a comprehensive study.
Objectives
The objectives of the committee shall be to:
• Need: Determine if there is a need for a garbage transfer station in the
city of La Porte.
• Feasibility: Conduct a feasibility study to assess the practicality and
economic viability of establishing a garbage transfer station.
• Location: Identify and evaluate potential locations within the city for the
garbage transfer station, considering factors such as accessibility,
environmental impact, and community acceptance.
• Benefits: Analyze the potential benefits to the city and its residents,
including improved waste management, environmental protection, and
enhanced service delivery.
• Long-term savings: Estimate long-term savings in operational costs,
including reductions in transportation expenses, landfill fees, and
equipment maintenance.
• Short-term savings: Identify any immediate cost savings or efficiencies
that could be realized through the establishment of the garbage transfer
station.
• Impact on staffing and equipment usage: Assess the impact on current
staffing levels and equipment usage, including potential changes in job
roles, training requirements, and equipment needs.
Mayor Helton provided the charge to the Committee. The Committee discussed
identifying three likely locations for a transfer station that might also accommodate
debris collection, including locations outside the city limits, and finding which
locations TCEQ would consider viable to be permitted.
Chris Coughran was allowed to provide public comment at this time, suggesting
that commercial collection might be considered, as well as drop-off hours open to
the public. Mr. Alexander mentioned that Deer Park has a 'spotter' or call -in
program for heavy trash and noted the City of La Porte doesn't enforce limits on
pick up size on large piles for collection. He also agreed to pursue setting up a tour
of the Deer Park transfer station facility.