Gilmanton transfer facility manager receives Sami Izzo Recycler of the Year Award

The Northeast Resource Recovery Association (NRRA), New Hampshire, announced that Justin Leavitt, Gilmanton Transfer Facility manager, as the 2010 Sami Izzo Recycler of the Year. His leadership, passion and drive for recycling earned him this prestigious award.

Leavitt joined the staff at the Gilmanton Transfer Facility in August 2006 and filled the leadership void when the facility manager left the position in 2008. The town’s board of selectmen appointed him interim manager, offering him a permanent position in July 2009.

As facility manager, his passion for recycling is infectious, and his dedication is a model to all residents, as well as to other facility managers, said Betty Ann Abbott, chair of the Gilmanton board of selectmen, who nominated Leavitt for this award.

Leavitt has not only worked with residents of Gilmanton but is a driving force to educate students in the town about recycling. In his four years at the transfer facility, he has initiated a partnership with a local school that has been key to keeping The Gilmanton School’s recycling program running. Not only does he give students tours of the transfer station, but he uses his own vehicle to pick up the recyclables at the school!

This award is given annually to an individual who combines the qualities of commitment, creativity, leadership, enthusiasm and flexibility in developing and sustaining an environmentally and financially sound solid waste management program.