Approval Process and Public Meetings

The MedRecycler proposal is subject to a lengthy and detailed public process, requiring multiple approvals at all levels of government. The process has been underway for over a year.

State of Rhode Island (RI DEM)

  1. Office of Air Resources: Minor source permit: issued May 7, 2020
  2. Office of Land Revitalization and Sustainable Material Management waste processing permit: pending.

Town of West Warwick

  1. April 17, 2019: Technical Review Committee
    • The meeting was public, and public notice was published 48 hours in advance in accordance with the state Open Meetings Law.
  2. May 6, 2019: Planning Board Public Informational Meeting 
    • The meeting was public, and public notice was published 48 hours in advance in accordance with the state Open Meetings Law.
    • Project Description: The applicant is proposing to install a waste to energy recycling facility in an existing building located at 1600 Division Road in a Commercial Industrial zoning district in accordance with zoning section 5.21 “Green, renewable or alternative energy installations and facilities (green project).”
    • Outcome:
      • Project found to be:
        • Generally consistent with: Comprehensive Community Plan, the towns subdivision and land development regulations
        • No significant negative environmental impacts
        • Adequate physical access to a public street
        • Safe circulation of traffic, adequate detention of surface water runoff, suitable building site, preservation of natural features
        • No increased flooding and soil erosion
      • Planning recommendations:
        • Provide operation and maintenance plan for the facility
        • Work with local officials to develop an emergency response plan
        • Proof of liability insurance (in an amount to address any failure of the facility)

In order to sell energy to an energy provider, the company must provide written approval to the Town from the provider (facility has been approved as an energy provider

  1. June 8, 2020: Planning Board Meeting
    • The meeting was public and took place via ZOOM. Public notice was published in advance in accordance with the state Open Meetings Law.
    • Outcome:
        • The Planning Board will select a third-party expert to conduct a thorough review of the project and analyze any environmental impacts it may have.

Local approvals not required: Zoning Board, Zone Change, Comprehensive Plan.