The most discussion revolved around a proposal for The Wine House to use a 2,000-gallon tight tank designed to accommodate double the daily flow. A tight tank is typically used as a temporary solution for wastewater storage, with the need for regular pumping. However, the board voiced concerns about the appropriateness of allowing this tight tank under current guidelines, as the code stipulates that for new or increased flow applications, a tight tank cannot be approved. Members agreed that a full board discussion was necessary before making a decision, emphasizing that a proper septic system design should be fully approved. The cost of a proper septic system was estimated to be between $40,000 and $50, which necessitated careful planning and approval.

The board decided to postpone the decision on the tight tank until the next meeting to allow for further consideration. This delay was deemed necessary to ensure thorough evaluation and compliance with health standards, particularly given the significant expense involved.

Another issue discussed was a persistent drainage problem on West Street. A neighbor reported significant water accumulation in front of a nearby house, which was traced back to the discharge from a sump pump on Green Lane. The board concluded that the solution would be to run a pipe directly from the sump pump to the catch basin. However, there was reluctance to have the town cover the costs associated with this solution. The property owner on Green Lane was open to allowing a polyethylene pipe to be installed on town property and planned to seek a price estimate from a local contractor. Addressing this drainage problem was seen as beneficial not only for the individual property owner but for the wider community, as it would likely alleviate water issues for the entire neighborhood.

The board also discussed various permit renewals and compliance inspections. A notable point of contention arose regarding the installation of a septic system on Ammer Street. Despite concerns about adherence to previously discussed conditions, the consensus leaned toward approving the installation as the most reasonable course of action given the circumstances.

A renewal application for an installer’s permit from Don Cole and Sun Excavating was reviewed, with assurances that the individual associated with a past issue regarding a church installation was not from this firm. This led to a general agreement to approve the renewal. Another installer’s permit renewal for D Construction was discussed and unanimously approved based on successful past projects.

The board addressed certificates of compliance for properties on Morgan Street and West Street. The inspection for a property on Morgan Street was deemed satisfactory, and the board agreed to approve the certificate. Similarly, the certificate for a property on West Street met the required as-built elevations and was approved without issue. An application for a well permit on Bachelor Street, linked to the Aldrich Lots, was also considered and was inclined to be granted provisionally pending a site inspection.

A temporary food license request from the Church of Christ for an event on September 14 was approved. The board also reviewed Title Five inspection results for a property on Bachelor Street, which required further evaluation regarding the tank and SAS replacement. Concerns about engineering oversight and the need for a qualified firm to monitor the work were raised, emphasizing the importance of a proper perk test witnessed by the town.

The board discussed a property on East State Street, where a conditional pass had been issued due to a corroded tank. Despite concerns about the tank’s internal degradation, the consensus was to accept the findings, noting the concrete structure’s adequacy. An anticipated condemnation order for a property on Jackson Circle was also mentioned, with plans to invite the inspector to the next meeting for an update.

Administrative matters included discussions on financial turnover to the treasurer, totaling $875 from permits, licenses, and fees. The board also reviewed a temporary food license for an event on September 1st, with emphasis on ensuring safe food handling and water source testing, particularly for a pig roasting process. Coordination between the event organizers and the health inspector was discussed to ensure compliance with health standards.

The board continued to emphasize the importance of maintaining high sanitary standards to avoid public health crises, particularly for events involving food vendors and facilities. The need for clear and detailed permit applications, outlining expectations for sanitation, trash collection, and other critical elements, was highlighted to ensure that all parties involved were adequately informed and prepared.