Townsend Board of Health Advances New Trash Contract to Town Vote

Overview: In a recent Townsend Board of Health meeting, members approved upgrades to residential properties and took decisive steps towards implementing a new trash collection contract. The board also celebrated the success of the Earth Day cleanup event, discussed the promotion of composting in the community, and acknowledged the resignation of a board member.

Chatham Board of Health Approves Variances with Conditions

Overview: In an effort to manage the development and renovation of properties while maintaining public health standards, the Chatham Board of Health addressed several variance requests during their April 22, 2024 meeting. Among the most significant items approved was a variance for a property on Main Street, which included an extension of the timeline for sewer system connection and imposed conditions ensuring buyer agreement to the terms.

Gardner Board of Health Tackles Water Safety and Recycling Initiatives

Overview: The Gardner Board of Health meeting addressed concerns surrounding public health and environmental safety, including the potential risks of PFOA in drinking water and the introduction of a paint stewardship program.

Amherst Board of Health Tackles Tobacco Regulation and Public Health

Overview: At a recent meeting, the Amherst Board of Health engaged in a review of the town’s tobacco regulations, including discussions on fine adjustments, enforcement challenges, and the relevance of certain violations. Moreover, the board addressed public health initiatives, such as the success of a mindfulness session and a hepatitis A vaccine clinic, the future of the kindness campaign, and the potential impact of a looming tick and mosquito season.

Reading Board of Health Considers New Food Code and Tobacco Policy

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Reading Board of Health focused on the potential adoption of the 2022 food code to enhance food safety standards and debated the introduction of a nicotine-free generation policy aimed at curbing tobacco use among future generations. These topics, along with discussions on the use of opioid settlement funds and changes to the town Charter regarding associate members and term lengths, were at the forefront of the board’s agenda.