UPS Units: There was brief discussion about the life cycle of UPS units – battery life and the unit itself – damage from lighting strikes, battery disposal and status re hazardous waste.  Intact, the battery could be considered universal waste; if broken open, hazardous waste. Replacement batteries can be purchased at Allstart Electric in Newport. Allstart has the ability to recycle the intact batteries.

HMSC Facilities Staff: Received praise from NOAA and Housing for their responsive service and support.

Hazardous Waste Pickup: Questions arose about the schedule for the next hazardous waste pickup, lab cleanup vs. waste, and whether certain expired pharmaceuticals might or might not be “waste”.

MSI Issues: Several HsO students who have attended our MSI brownbag lunches and have served on some of the MSI committees will attend the ASOSU meeting, to speak out in support of the location of the new MSI building.

Tsunami/Evacuation Issues: The group discussed possible vertical evacuation options. We also learned that a reverse osmosis filter and 40,000 gallon storage bladder will be installed locally for use in emergency situations. Powered by generators, it will be able to process both fresh and seawater. The Cache committee hopes to reconcile its “dream list” against inventory at its next meeting. The committee is currently working on projected needs for SafeHaven Hill. Once completed, the group will focus on Community College site needs.

Attending: Jim Lewis, Mitch Vance, Kelly Moroney, Kathy Minta, Jody Stecher, David Applegate, Mary Markland, Scott Turkle, Florence Sullivan, Cinamon Moffett, Colleen Doyle, Patty George, Carol Cole