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)
- Office of Air Resources: Minor source permit: issued May 7, 2020
- Office of Land Revitalization and Sustainable Material Management waste processing permit: pending.
Town of West Warwick
- 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.
- 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
- Project found to be:
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- 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)
- Planning recommendations:
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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
- 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:
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- 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.
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Local approvals not required: Zoning Board, Zone Change, Comprehensive Plan.