The meeting’s most issue, as voiced by residents, was the ongoing bed bug infestation at the Haywood Buildings. Residents expressed dissatisfaction with the existing pest control measures, citing repeated ineffectiveness over several years. One resident, Betty Carrer, detailed the distress of having to pack and unpack her belongings multiple times due to recurring infestations. She highlighted the plight of a 75-year-old neighbor who faced similar challenges and criticized the building management for neglecting key areas like the laundry room, where bed bugs were previously found. The board acknowledged these concerns and assured residents that the issue would be further addressed later in the meeting.

Further complicating the situation, some residents reported that one tenant refused to allow pest control access to her apartment, a violation of the lease agreement that hindered comprehensive treatment. This refusal posed a significant obstacle to eliminating the pests entirely. A family member of another resident, Mrs. Gonzalez, provided a notable account of the emotional and financial stress caused by the infestation, illustrating that over $1,100 had been spent on new furniture and mattresses.

To address the pest problem effectively, the board discussed implementing an integrated pest management plan, which includes educating residents on prevention and treatment measures. This initiative is crucial, especially as residents were cautioned against using personal pesticides, which could worsen the situation or cause harmful chemical interactions. The board also promised to improve communication with residents and to provide educational materials that detail the pest control process and the importance of cooperation in eradication efforts.

In an effort to streamline efforts and enhance oversight, the board planned to create a spreadsheet to track the status of affected units and their respective treatments. They also discussed the possibility of bringing in a mobile laundry service to assist residents without transportation, as access to laundry facilities is essential for treating infested items.

Beyond the bed bug issue, the board addressed significant staffing changes within the health department. The director, Micah Blondo, had resigned, and an acting director would temporarily oversee the department until a new director was appointed. The board filled an administrative assistant position, while the transfer station supervisor had retired, leaving a vacancy in that role. The administrative coordinator position was reduced from full-time to part-time and was posted accordingly.

Discussion also turned to the landfill transfer station and solid waste management. A contract had been signed for leachate pump replacement and groundwater monitoring, with completion expected by the end of the year. However, there was a critical need for erosion repairs at the landfill, for which no funding was currently allocated. This prompted the board to consider creative funding solutions, as the erosion posed a risk to groundwater integrity.

In addition to these topics, the board provided updates on public health initiatives and community events. A domestic violence visual event occurred at city hall on October 6, followed by an annual meeting for a local organization on October 9, and a Hispanic Heritage Month celebration on October 15. Upcoming events included a conference organized by the District Attorney’s office on October 23. Regarding health advisories, it was noted that while tick-borne illnesses posed a low risk this year, precautions were still advised as tick activity could continue into mid-November due to warm weather.

Vaccine clinics also featured prominently in the discussion, with several conducted recently, including a COVID-focused clinic at city hall on October 20. There was mention of medication disposal challenges, specifically the Gardner Police Department’s temporary halt on medication acceptance due to state police issues. Despite this, a take-back drug day had been executed, and the board was evaluating new providers for sharps disposal due to rising costs.