A concern at the meeting was the situation on King Street, known as Littleton Green, where a deceased tenant had left behind hoarding conditions exacerbated by water damage from a flooded bathroom sink. This situation had affected common areas and neighboring apartments, creating a potential public health nuisance. The issue was further complicated by a legal injunction from a sibling regarding the deceased tenant’s belongings, stalling remediation efforts. The board emphasized the urgency of addressing this matter, citing potential mold growth and foul odors as significant health risks. They discussed issuing an order for remediation to be completed within 30 days, acknowledging the possibility of court involvement to emphasize the public health implications. The unit’s management had sealed the unit but could not proceed with repairs until the legal matters were resolved. The board stressed the importance of swift action to prevent further complications, especially since a pet from the apartment had been rehomed.

In addition to the housing issue, the board reviewed several septic system upgrade proposals, including one for a property on Dalia Drive. The existing system had failed a Title 5 inspection, prompting a proposed upgrade to a new 1,500-gallon, two-compartment septic tank with a leech field using a Presby system. The board approved a reduction in the groundwater offset requirement from four feet to two feet, recognizing the design’s suitability for the constrained site. Similarly, a septic system proposal for a property on Baldwin Hill Road was approved, with board members expressing confidence in the design despite the property’s tight lot and elevation challenges.

Concerns about runoff were raised by residents during the public hearing for a septic system plan requiring a variance for groundwater offset. Residents Bob Tabro and Kurt Kramer sought assurances that grading and construction activities would not negatively impact their properties. The board confirmed that construction would adhere to regulations, and no increased runoff was expected. The plan, which included a Presby Enviroseptic leaching system and fill within ten feet of the property line, received unanimous approval.

The meeting also covered updates on local virus risks, including the West Nile virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (Triple E). Littleton had not experienced significant outbreaks, maintaining a moderate risk level, unlike surrounding towns facing high alerts. The board emphasized standard precautions, such as using EPA-approved repellents and avoiding outdoor activities during peak mosquito hours. Although positive mosquito samples for Triple E had been detected, no human cases were reported in Littleton. The board remained vigilant, recognizing the need for an emergency meeting if conditions changed.

Discussion touched on COVID-19 and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), with wastewater data showing no unusual spikes in COVID-19 cases and no recent RSV reports from hospitals. Members encouraged vaccinations for both viruses, considering RSV’s severity, and urged residents to stay updated with flu shots.

Administrative matters included an announcement about the town receiving $40,000 from opioid settlement funds, to be disbursed in two installments over 10 and 15 years. The funds’ structure was critiqued for not meeting immediate financial needs, though ideas for public health programming, such as incentivizing participation through gift cards, were suggested. The board discussed an intermunicipal agreement to improve regional health access, potentially involving collaboration for a specialist position.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on correspondence about tobacco regulations linked to new construction, prompting interest in adding this topic to a future agenda. The board also acknowledged September as suicide prevention month, emphasizing available resources like the 988 hotline, and reminded residents of breast cancer awareness month in October, encouraging healthcare screenings.