As one of the largest suppliers of fuel to Regional Waste Systems (RWS), I though I would report to taxpayers in RWS member towns that after two years of trying to come to grips with very difficult organizational challenges, there are some encouraging signs at RWS.

The Board of Directors has received the first part of a three-part, independent review that it voted to authorize, and I believe there are many valuable insights in that report. I have high hopes that RWS management and the board will adhere to many of the recommendations.

I am also quite impressed with the new general manager at RWS. A lot of hard work remains, but there’s now a steady hand at the helm who has the qualifications to make hard decisions. He also seems to have the commitment to make decisions honestly and openly, which is crucial at a public entity like RWS.

Taxpayers should be pleased with what appears to be a new direction. It’s taken hard work by several public officials on the RWS Board of Directors, but the facility has a much better chance of rebounding, and once again being a successful example of regional cooperation. The public should thank these officials, and encourage RWS General Manager Kevin Roche, Chairman James Cloutier and the rest of the board, as they continue to straighten things out. It’s been a difficult two years at RWS, but the forecast is much improved.

Filomena R. Troiano

Co-owner, Troiano Waste Services

South Portland