The Board of Health unanimously approved variances for a septic system replacement on Canal Street, a five-bedroom two-family home near the Squan Cook River. The existing system had failed, prompting the owner to propose the removal of the old tank and installation of new tanks. The septic system’s leaching facility did not meet the required 100-foot buffer from wetlands, with the closest point at 84 feet. The Board weighed the implications of these variances against existing conditions and pre-existing regulations, ultimately deciding to grant the variances for the new installation.

In a separate discussion, the Board addressed the need for a main drain installation in the pool area of Country Estates. The Country Estates Association’s chairman highlighted past capital improvements and the financial limitations faced by residents. Concerns about the costs and engineering requirements for the main drain were raised, and the representative suggested a three-year plan to treat the installation as a capital expenditure. The Board referenced previous agreements for septic system replacements as a potential framework for this project, emphasizing the importance of ongoing inspections and updates to ensure compliance with health standards.

The representative from Country Estates stressed that the pool’s current operational standards exceed state requirements, with upgraded pumps and frequent water quality testing. The pool typically accommodates only a few bathers at a time, further supporting the argument for maintaining health and safety standards without immediate installation of a main drain. The Board considered extending the repair timeline to four years to alleviate financial pressures while ensuring continued access to the pool.

A stable permit application for a local property was also scrutinized. The application detailed the number of animals to be kept—six horses and two goats—and included a plan for manure management. The manure storage area was confirmed to be 150 feet away from the existing well to mitigate contamination risks. The Board’s jurisdiction over properties exceeding five acres was noted, and a robust manure management plan was deemed necessary for accountability.

Concerns about rat infestations in the town were raised, with a humorous anecdote about a rat encounter in a driveway. An inspection of a nearby barn was proposed to formally address the rat issue.

Tensions between the Board of Health and the Board of Selectmen, particularly concerning Select Board member Joe Shank, were a point of discussion. Shank had criticized the Board of Health’s management, claiming inefficiencies. A Board of Health member defended the Board’s self-sufficiency and accused the Select Board of financial mismanagement and scapegoating. The Board planned to draft a letter to Shank, urging him to cease making disparaging comments and clarifying their stance on his initiatives.

Financial implications of the Select Board’s actions were discussed, including the management of a waste disposal contract and the sale of “purple bags.” The Board of Health expressed frustration over the lack of collaboration and legal counsel access, attributing these issues to the Select Board’s restrictions.

Additionally, the Board reviewed trash and recycling data, noting steady tonnage reports and a potential increase in recycling participation. A credit worth $6,000 for the recycling center was lost due to a bulky furniture disposal issue, requiring coverage from the general revolving fund. Security concerns at the recycling center were addressed, with a member personally funding a $120 subscription to monitor security cameras.

The functionality of a new gate at the recycling center was confirmed, and volunteer staffing issues were discussed, highlighting the need for more personnel to ensure safe operations. The upcoming distribution of flyers related to a waste program and the surge in demand for overflow bags were also noted.