The meeting’s most pressing topic was the presentation by Civil Environmental Consultants regarding the exceedances of 1,4 dioxane levels in groundwater around the closed landfill on West Street. The consultants, Phil Jagoda and John Tand, provided a detailed overview of their environmental monitoring activities. They explained the landfill’s historical context, noting its unlined sections dating back to the 1940s and current monitoring practices. The landfill’s newer sections have a double composite liner and a leachate collection system directing leachate to a wastewater treatment plant.

This new detection method, introduced in April 2024, offers greater accuracy in measuring this contaminant, compared to the previous screening level of 250 parts per billion. The board expressed a desire for more clarity on how 1,4 dioxane is regulated, given its implications for public health.

The discussion also covered the regulatory frameworks related to 1,4 dioxane, with emphasis on the different standards set for drinking water, inhalation, and environmental discharge by the EPA and Massachusetts DEP. The focus was on understanding and managing the potential impact of these exceedances on public health and environmental safety through continued monitoring and strict adherence to regulations.

Attention then turned to the potential impact of the landfill on nearby wetlands and private residences. The proximity of the nearest residence, approximately 1,600 feet from the contamination site, was noted, and questions were raised about extending surface water testing to wetlands near West Street. The testing of such areas would require DEP’s approval, with concerns about how groundwater contaminants, including 1,4 dioxane, may migrate.

Participants highlighted the need for ongoing monitoring, particularly the possibility of increasing the frequency of testing to biannual intervals to better assess contamination trends. The dialogue included considerations for additional monitoring points and wells to delineate the extent of contamination. There was a consensus on the importance of community awareness and potential mitigation strategies, such as activated carbon treatment systems, should contaminant levels rise significantly.

The meeting also included a broader discussion on secondary contaminants like iron, manganese, and chloride, with specific mention of arsenic exceedances. Although these secondary levels were noted, it was clarified that no residents appeared to consume the affected water. A Licensed Site Professional emphasized the need for more comprehensive data before taking immediate action.

Beyond environmental issues, the board addressed staffing changes within the health department. The recent passing of the food inspector and the upcoming departure of an administrative assistant were noted, reflecting ongoing transitions within the department. There were updates on the landfill, such as discussions with the DEP regarding funding for erosion repairs and the need to repair damaged monitoring wells.