The meeting’s focal point was the discussion and subsequent approval of a kennel license waiver for a residence on Sunny’s Way, presented by Candice Brer. Brer confirmed owning four indoor dogs and assured the board of a secure, fully fenced six-foot PVC backyard for the dogs’ exercise. The board noted that there were no complaints from neighbors regarding Brer’s dogs. After an initial oversight regarding a formal vote, the motion to approve the waiver passed unanimously.

Following the kennel license topic, the board shifted its attention to old business concerning vendors selling trash bags to residents. One vendor had a notably high overdue balance, initially over $50,000, which had been reduced to $30,000 through the efforts of the office manager. Despite the reduction, the board expressed concern over the long-standing nature of the debt, with some invoices dating back to August 2022. The Selectmen will draft this new contract.

Health concerns related to farming activities on Pleasant Street were also prominently discussed. A resident voiced frustration over ongoing issues, including noise and rodent problems, which have persisted for more than ten years. The resident specifically mentioned mice burrowing under her home, citing a lack of effective response to previous complaints. The board recognized the difficulties posed by existing regulations and the property owner’s refusal to permit inspections or interventions. They suggested testing the water for contamination and committed to reviewing the complete complaint file for further action.

The board also proposed a change to the temporary food permit process. The current six-month limit would be replaced with a one-time annual fee of $75. This amendment was prompted by inefficiencies observed when a vendor had to return multiple times for permits. The motion to remove the six-month extension was made, seconded, and passed.

Another discussion involved a trailer on County Street, which had been reported as potentially occupied. The board raised safety concerns about individuals living so close to a steep embankment leading to a railroad bed. They emphasized the need for the building inspector and relevant departments to investigate the situation. Regulations concerning stationary campers were referenced, and the importance of interdepartmental communication and cooperation to resolve such issues was underscored.

In other business, the board addressed the appointment of Jennifer Doik Sara as the tobacco control officer, a position she had previously held. The motion to recommend her for the role passed without any complaints about her past performance. Additionally, the board approved updated job descriptions for both the public health nurse and the health agent after a review process. They also discussed refining the health agent checklist to focus more on allergy identification during restaurant inspections.

The board then moved on to routine procedural topics, such as the signature authorization form for new members, which was initially tabled but later reversed and finalized. They also approved a new vendor agreement related to bag sales, which will be forwarded to the Selectmen for approval. Recommendations for committee representatives were made and passed, including Barbara Cabia for the Solid Waste committee and the North Bristol County Public Health Alliance, and Tammy Melow for the agricultural commission.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on implementing a testing method for individuals seeking an installer’s license who do not have current permits from surrounding towns. This would allow them to demonstrate familiarity with local bylaws and stay current with regulations. A motion to gather information from surrounding towns regarding their testing methods for installer permits was made, seconded, and passed.