With 13 human cases of West Nile Virus reported across various counties and four cases of Triple E, the Board took action to mitigate potential human contact with the viruses. The Board implemented new guidelines requiring outdoor activities, including Fall Ball and school soccer, to end approximately at 6:00 PM, 15 minutes before dusk. Thus far, these adjustments have been well-received, with no reported issues.

The Board also discussed the importance of community vigilance, particularly in areas like Rochester and New Bedford, which have experienced increased mosquito activity. The Board emphasized that while the measures are precautionary, they are necessary to protect public health.

In addition to addressing mosquito-borne illnesses, the Board conducted a public hearing on a septic system design variance request for a property on Darling Street. The variance requested a reduction in the required distance of the leaching field from the property line and the nearest building. The applicant’s representative explained the site constraints necessitating the variance, including storage issues on the property that hindered access to alternative locations for the septic system. Concerns about potential leakage were addressed, with the applicant proposing a rubber barrier to prevent lateral wastewater movement and using newer technology to improve waste treatment efficiency.

After discussions focusing on the safety and integrity of the surrounding properties, the Board approved the variance request. The approval was conditional upon installing a poly barrier on three sides instead of two and repositioning the vent 10 feet from the lot line. The applicant was required to submit a revised plan reflecting these changes. The Board underscored the importance of regular maintenance of the septic system to ensure its longevity and effectiveness.

The meeting also included a discussion on implementing a public health training program in collaboration with the Bay State Public Health Training Hub. The program is part of a public health excellence grant from the Department of Public Health, aimed at enhancing the capacity of health departments across Massachusetts. The grant facilitates training for health agents in areas such as food codes, housing codes, and Title 5 inspections, with Acushnet participating in a training hub that includes over thirty communities.

Concerns about public perception of additional inspectors were addressed, with assurances that all activities would be communicated transparently to the public. The training program is designed to cater to both experienced health agents and new inspectors, providing them with the necessary skills to manage their duties effectively. The grant covers training costs.

A formal motion was made to authorize the Bay State Public Training Hub to conduct training in Acushnet, which passed unanimously. The Board also discussed the potential for confusion when new inspectors substitute for familiar personnel during inspections.