06:59The most notable discussion involved the proposal for a tight tank installation on Ash Street, where the property owner sought a variance to convert an unfinished garage space into a bathroom-equipped area. This proposal faced scrutiny due to its location in Zone A, an environmentally sensitive area where new tanks are typically prohibited unless they serve as repairs. The board members reiterated the strict regulations, with one member stating, “under the zone A, it’s pretty clear there’s no new tanks allowed in a zone A only under a repair.” This led to a debate about the environmental implications and the potential for setting a precedent if such a variance were granted.

26:50Concerns about environmental impact were central to the discussion, as board members highlighted the risks of contamination to local water supplies. There was also debate about potential complications if the garage was sold and used as a bedroom, which could increase flow and strain the existing septic system. The representative for the property argued that the tight tank would not increase nitrogen levels, a point contested by the board, which emphasized adherence to public health regulations. Ultimately, the motion to deny the variance was passed unanimously, with board members noting the applicant’s right to appeal within 30 days.

36:02In addition to the tight tank variance, the Board tackled the topic of fees for various health services, acknowledging the need to update them to align with those of neighboring towns. The discussion focused on three main areas: percolation tests, tobacco inspections, and camp inspections. The Board proposed increasing the percolation test fee to ensure developers, rather than taxpayers, bear the costs associated with new construction. Similarly, the tobacco inspection fee was slated to rise from $30 to $75 to cover annual compliance checks, with one member pointing out that the current fee was insufficient to cover actual inspection costs. Camp inspection fees, previously set at $10, were proposed to increase to $150.

The Board emphasized the importance of transparency and community input, planning to host a public hearing in May to discuss the fee changes further. Members agreed to post the proposed changes publicly to ensure residents have a chance to provide feedback.

06:09Routine items included the approval of a groundwater variance for a septic system upgrade on Bedford Street. This involved installing a Presby system in rocky terrain, requiring a specific location to comply with well regulations. After clarifications on the system’s design and groundwater levels, the Board approved the septic repair motion, which included specifications for monolithic septic tanks.

28:37The meeting also covered the approval of a variance to drill a new well on Main Street, as the existing well was inadequate. The Board stipulated that the old well must be decommissioned once the new one is drilled. A mobile food permit request from DNL Concessions LLC was approved, contingent on passing a pending inspection, allowing the vendor to operate year-round on Chase Road.

33:42Additionally, the Board approved a Betterment loan for septic system improvements on Bedford Street, highlighting the town’s initiative to support homeowners without incurring costs. The Board reiterated that past concerns about potential financial losses from these loans were unfounded.

49:10Lastly, the Board addressed upcoming community events and public health concerns. They confirmed details for a rabies clinic scheduled for April 5, 2025, open to all residents with a $10 fee per animal. There was also a brief discussion on mosquito and tick control, with updates on local testing efforts and the rising concern of lone star ticks and alpha-gal syndrome in neighboring areas.