The board’s focus on tobacco regulations was a central topic of discussion. The regulations, last revised in 2020, have been under review since January to ensure compliance with state mandates. Risha, who led the tobacco regulation efforts, outlined the ongoing process and the necessary revisions. While some edits are mandatory to align with state requirements, others were discussed at length to reach a consensus. Risha explained that some changes were too complex for track changes, resulting in a clean version of the updated regulations being provided for review.

During the discussion, a member raised concerns about the restrictive nature of the current tobacco license policy, which prevents new establishments from obtaining a license if another’s license is revoked. This policy is part of a long-term strategy to phase out tobacco licenses entirely, prioritizing public health, particularly among youth. The conversation also touched on the evolving landscape of tobacco regulations, particularly concerning flavored products. The updated regulations aim to ban flavored wraps, previously in a regulatory gray area, potentially affecting local establishments.

The complexities of tobacco and marijuana licensing were also highlighted, especially the overlaps and distinctions between regulations for electronic nicotine delivery devices and traditional tobacco products. A reference was made to the “nicotine-free generation” legislation passed in a town in the Greater Boston area, prohibiting anyone born after a certain year from purchasing nicotine products. This aggressive public health approach underscores the board’s recognition of the significant health risks associated with nicotine use, particularly among young people.

Mosquito surveillance was another significant topic, with the board discussing the town’s contract with the Pioneer Valley Mosquito Control District. This contract includes surveillance and treatment for mosquito populations. John Bricks, a dedicated public servant, oversees the mosquito program, which involves treating areas where mosquito larvae develop and testing mosquitoes for diseases. Last season, a West Nile virus-positive mosquito was identified in North Amherst, although there were no known human cases in the town. The board expressed concern about the potential for Triple E virus, which is more fatal than West Nile, as new cases were reported in neighboring counties.

The discussion also addressed tick surveillance for Lyme disease. Unlike the mosquito program, there is no equivalent program for ticks. Although UMass conducted some surveillance, it reportedly ceased after the COVID-19 pandemic. The board recognized the complexities surrounding Lyme disease, including testing and treatment access, and acknowledged that current statistics may underreport actual cases.

Staffing changes within the public health department were noted, with Kyle, a full-time public health program assistant, soon leaving after graduation, prompting the need for a replacement. The department includes Olivia Lara Kahoun, a full-time public health nurse managing vaccinations and health education, and Nancy Schroeder, a part-time contributor who takes meeting minutes and acts as a resident historian. Additionally, the department has three inspectors: Susan Malone, Sasha Clap, and Ed Smith, the lead code enforcement inspector and supervisor. The inspectors are part of the planning department, not directly under the health director, a change from over ten years ago.

The board also discussed plans for upcoming vaccine clinics, coordinating with the Northampton Department of Health and Human Services to organize between three and six clinics at the Bangs Center. These clinics aim to increase vaccination rates among uninsured or underinsured individuals, especially as only 25% of residents received the booster last fall. An intern from UMass is analyzing vaccination data to identify community groups that may be less likely to receive vaccines, with a visual presentation of the findings expected.

Attention was given to the recent incident where a tobacco retailer sold products to a minor, resulting in a seven-day license suspension and a fine for the violation. The board monitors compliance among tobacco retailers and noted that repeat offenders might face further consequences.

Additionally, the board discussed plans to hold meetings at the Bangs Center, which houses the public health department, rather than the Town Hall. Kyla is working to secure a room for monthly meetings to ensure consistency for attendees. Meetings will be conducted virtually or in person based on member availability and weather conditions.