The most critical item discussed was a variance hearing regarding Innovative/Alternative (IA) technology for Minglewood Homes, specifically for a property located at parcel H13 Captain NS Way. David Clark, representing Minglewood Homes, detailed the property specifications—a 57,000 square foot lot, with 44,000 square feet lying above the Coastal Bank. Under current regulations, this limited the allowable number of bedrooms to four. However, Minglewood sought a variance to accommodate a fifth bedroom through the use of IA technology.

Board members engaged in a thorough discussion about the property’s location and development history. Ron Broman disclosed a personal connection, noting, “I just want to bring up that my grandson works for Minglewood Homes.” The variance request was considered straightforward, and no concerns were raised. Clarification was provided regarding the strip of land between the lot and the Oyster River, confirming it was a panhandle for the lot rather than conservation land. Questions arose about the capacity of the leaching pit under the driveway, which was stipulated to support vehicles up to 20,000 pounds per axle, aligning with standard engineering practices.

The board approved the variance request with specific stipulations, as read by Judy. These included restricting the property to a maximum of five bedrooms, adhering to a covenant concerning connection to the municipal sewer when available, and the installation of a monitoring agreement for the septic system. A correction was noted in the conditions, specifying that the covenant should reflect five bedrooms instead of three. Following a motion and a second, the board conducted a voice vote, resulting in the unanimous approval of the variance for Minglewood Homes.

Another topic discussed was the installation of NARCAN boxes in public spaces, including one at the fish pier, one at the community center, and another in a hallway outside a designated area. The purpose of these installations is to provide access to NARCAN, an opioid overdose reversal treatment, with a focus on community awareness and education. Currently, the boxes are empty, pending training for town staff to ensure proper use. A community training session is planned to educate residents on the product, its usage, and where it can be obtained, especially for those concerned about family members who may be at risk. NARCAN is administered via a nasal spray, and its timely use during an overdose can be life-saving.

The discussion delved into the logistics of the NARCAN boxes. They are designed to be easily accessible, without needing to break a seal, differentiating them from other emergency equipment. The AIDS Support Group of Cape Cod is responsible for regularly restocking the boxes. Questions were raised about the potential misuse of the boxes, such as whether individuals struggling with addiction might take multiple doses for personal use. While the primary goal is to normalize the availability of NARCAN, there was acknowledgment that if someone did take supplies, it would not be viewed negatively in the context of saving lives.

The dialogue also touched on the frequency of opioid overdoses in the community. While the town does not face an overwhelming opioid crisis, there have been reported overdoses, including a couple in private residences. The need to have NARCAN readily available was framed as a step toward harm reduction. Comparisons were made to needle exchange programs, emphasizing that while those programs aim to prevent disease transmission, NARCAN serves the immediate purpose of saving lives during an overdose situation.

The board then transitioned to old business, discussing the Community Health Needs Assessment report. Additionally, a report on short-term rental regulations is scheduled to be presented by Karen Shimazo at the next meeting on September 23. During the same session, Mr. Failey from the Department of Public Works will address ongoing complaints about odors from the metal building at the transfer station, with the board considering the need for a possible inspection.

The matter of 99 Main Street, which had been a persistent issue, was also highlighted, with the property owners requesting a health hearing scheduled for September 9. The board noted that the health department had acquired NARCAN boxes.

Finally, the board discussed the distribution of COVID-19 test kits. Approximately 350 test kits have been received and are being distributed to the public through the health department, the Council on Aging, and the community center.