Acushnet Board of Health Rescinds Septic Inspection Policy, Discusses Local and State Health Concerns
- Meeting Overview:
During the Acushnet Board of Health meeting on July 21st, 2026, the board rescinded a previously enacted policy requiring engineers to perform septic inspections due to the absence of a health agent. With the recent appointment of a new health agent, Jennifer Galey, the board will now rely on its own personnel for these inspections. This decision marks a return to standard procedures and emphasizes the board’s confidence in its internal resources.
The meeting also covered a report from the Department of Public Health on arbovirus surveillance, which revealed that out of 807 mosquito samples tested between June 21st and 27th, one tested positive for West Nile virus, with no cases of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) reported. Although the positive case was in Berkshire County, far from Acushnet, the board discussed the importance of public awareness regarding such findings.
The board addressed a discrepancy in septic system design on Allison Drive, where a four-bedroom house was built on a septic system designed for three bedrooms. Steps are being taken to rectify this by extending the leaching field.
Additionally, the board discussed the recent cyclospora recall by Taylor Farms, which affected multiple states but not Massachusetts. The false positive tests have led to a significant recall.
Updates on enforcement orders for properties on Carol Street and Frank Street were provided. The board emphasized the need for timely submissions of plans to ensure compliance and progress.
James Kelley
Board of Health Officials:
Thomas Fortin, Robert Medeiros, David M. Davignon, Joseph Correia (Health Agent), Wanda L. Hamer (Clerk), Joann Demello (Senior Clerk)
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Meeting Type:
Board of Health
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
07/21/2026
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Recording Published:
07/22/2026
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Duration:
17 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Massachusetts
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County:
Bristol County
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Towns:
Acushnet
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