Granby Board of Health Deliberates on Septic System Challenges and Local Business Concerns
- Meeting Overview:
The Granby Board of Health meeting focused on deliberations over multiple septic system applications and inspections, as well as addressing compliance issues with local businesses. Central to the discussions were the septic system applications for various properties, each bringing forth challenges related to water table separation, wetlands proximity, and regulatory compliance. Additionally, the board tackled concerns about local businesses such as the Misfits Wellness and Skin Spa and the financial situation of the Dollar General.
00:59The meeting opened with an in-depth examination of septic system applications, most notably for properties on School Street and Morgan Street. At 159 School Street, a three-bedroom house’s septic system design was presented, featuring a 1500-gallon two-compartment tank equipped to manage 499 gallons per day, which is well above the 440-gallon requirement. The design necessitated the removal of the existing tank and included specific filtration controls. While the tank and SAS separation distances from wells and wetlands exceeded 100 feet, the absence of a reserve area due to a 5-foot water table separation posed concerns. A trench permit discussion highlighted the potential need for an additional tie to stabilize the SAS.
04:51The conversation then shifted to the septic system repair application for a property on Morgan Street, a four-bedroom house. The existing system passed a Title 5 inspection, marking the tank, pump, and controls as satisfactory. However, the board discussed the applicant’s request for a variance to reduce the water table separation from the standard 5 feet to 4 feet. Although the Elgen system was noted for offering additional protection, the board carefully weighed this variance request against the applicant’s need to maintain the property’s current grade. The board took into account the re-evaluated wetlands, now confirmed to be over 100 feet away.
19:57Attention was also drawn to the septic system situation on Harris Street, where a disposal work construction permit application was introduced. This involved replacing an existing septic tank with a new 1500-gallon two-compartment tank. However, there was uncertainty regarding the property’s inspection status as no Title 5 inspection had been conducted, and further clarification was required before the board could proceed with approval.
42:23In addition to septic system deliberations, the board addressed concerns about local businesses. The Misfits Wellness and Skin Spa submitted a cleaning plan for review, raising questions about its operations. It was clarified that the spa does not offer tanning services, focusing instead on massages, facials, and waxing. The board emphasized the importance of ensuring the spa holds proper state permits and licenses, assigning Colleen to reach out and invite the spa to a future meeting for further clarification on their cleaning procedures and compliance with health regulations.
45:26The board also discussed the Dollar General, focusing on water management issues after recent operational changes. A member noted the retailer’s financial difficulties. The board decided to seek a report on the measures taken to address these issues, acknowledging the potential reluctance of Dollar General to engage due to their financial constraints.
00:00The meeting concluded with administrative discussions, including planning for an upcoming public hearing on regulations. The board agreed not to take appointments during the public discussion to ensure focus on the hearing. While the regulations had been posted and advertised, they would be read only briefly during the meeting.
Christopher Martin
Board of Health Officials:
Lee Lalonde, William Shaheen, Richard Bombardier
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Meeting Type:
Board of Health
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
07/15/2025
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Recording Published:
07/18/2025
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Duration:
54 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Massachusetts
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County:
Hampshire County
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Towns:
Granby
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