McDevitt civics class presents trash mitigation solution at city councilors meeting

Eighth-grade students from McDevitt Middle School presented their action civics project to the Waltham City Council’s Economic and Community Development Committee on Monday night, proposing the installation of a solar-powered trash compactor to keep trash out of the Charles River.

The students from Ryan Hanlon and Barry Quinn’s civics class developed the project through research, outreach and community engagement. The proposal aims to reduce litter along the river by placing a solar-powered trash and recycling unit on Newton Street, a city-owned area with high pedestrian traffic near the Connors Memorial Swimming Pool. The area borders the Charles River.

“We want to improve the riverwalk and its surroundings by adding more trash cans and signs to remind people to throw their trash away,” said student Misha Kapadia during the presentation. 

Students Camron Hurley, Anushka Mannan and Saydee Class joined Misha in making the case for the trash compactor.

The students estimated the cost of the trash compactor system at approximately $7,500, with an additional $50 for maintenance signage. They contacted local officials, including the Department of Public Works and the City Council, to gather feedback and support.

Director of Public Works Michael Chiasson confirmed the Newton Street location would be viable and praised the students’ preparation and initiative. “This project was more clearly defined than others we usually see,” he said. “They came with good questions and helped me gather useful information.”

The Economic and Community Development Committee voted unanimously to move the proposal to the full City Council for further consideration. If approved, the project will be sent to Mayor Jeannette A. McCarthy’s office, where budget discussions would begin with the Department of Public Works.

Ward 8 Councilor Cathyann Harris, who introduced the resolution to support the project, praised the students’ efforts. “You impressed all of us,” she said. “This was an easy vote.”