The most significant outcome of the meeting was the approval of a revised permit process intended to streamline operations for local businesses. The new process involves the distribution of notices to businesses with permits changing in color and size. The discussion around this topic included the contemplation of penalties for late permit applications, with considerations for exceptions under certain circumstances. Ultimately, the board agreed to the new process, with an added stipulation to incorporate different colors in the mailers for better differentiation.

Another focal point of the meeting was the Solid Waste program. The delay in finalizing a vendor agreement for trash bags was attributed to the Solid Waste committee’s ongoing evaluation of potential changes to the curbside trash program. A forthcoming meeting with Mass D is expected to further outline the future trajectory for both the solid waste curbside program and the transfer station.

The board also tackled the subject of inventory discrepancies, particularly concerning the town’s supply of trash bags. A discrepancy between the physical count and the inventory logged by the highway department prompted discussions about more efficient inventory management practices. The possibility of implementing an electronic scanning system was considered as a solution to ensure accuracy in inventory records.

In the realm of public health, the town nurse reported on her activities, which included the resumption of blood pressure clinics and ordering COVID-19 test kits. Further initiatives highlighted the nurse’s collaboration with the police department for a blood drive and her completion of the first home visit in Dighton. The board expressed support for promoting a vaccine flyer developed by students from Bristol Aggie.

Additionally, the board examined the health department’s code of conduct and reviewed the purchase of laptops by the Board of Health. Debates arose regarding the necessity of these purchases and the process by which departmental spending is approved. The board members emphasized the importance of being informed about operational matters, including the level of detail each member receives about purchases and decisions.

The upcoming rabies clinic, organized by the town health department in collaboration with Bristol Aggie Vet Center, was also discussed. In the same vein, the board addressed the bulky item week, a period dedicated to the disposal of large items that cannot be managed through regular trash collection services.

The board also reviewed and discussed the annual report sign-off, which had been previously submitted.