Bill Sullivan from the Town Forest Committee presented a detailed proposal to amend the existing animal control bylaw. He highlighted the increasing public safety concerns due to commercial dog walkers allowing multiple dogs to run off-leash. Recent incidents, including a troubling encounter where a resident’s dog was attacked by several off-leash dogs, underscored the urgency for clearer regulations. Bill emphasized that the current bylaw’s definition of “effective voice control” is ambiguous and insufficient for ensuring public safety.

The proposed bylaw amendment aims to define “effective voice control” more stringently. It would require that dogs refrain from aggressive behavior, come immediately when called, and that handlers carry a leash. Additionally, it would limit the number of off-leash dogs per handler to two within the Town Forest. Dogs not under effective control would have to be leashed or removed from the area. The amendment also mandates the removal of dog waste and requires dogs to be leashed when entering or exiting the forest. Violators of these rules could be asked to leave the Town Forest and face potential enforcement actions.

The proposal will be submitted for discussion at the upcoming November town meeting, with the intention of enhancing public safety and reducing negative interactions between dogs and residents. The Town Council has already reviewed and approved the changes, and the Town Forest Committee is seeking co-sponsorship from the Board of Health to increase the proposal’s chances of passing at the town meeting. Questions arose regarding the practicality of enforcing the proposed stipulations, particularly given the current minimal enforcement mechanisms.

Concerns were also raised about the role of the Animal Control Officer (ACO) in enforcing the new regulations. It was clarified that while the ACO would respond to dog-related complaints, enforcement of the proposed regulations would not be within their regular duties. The ACO is an independent contractor working for multiple towns, which complicates regular enforcement. The committee expressed that they did not seek to emulate other towns’ stricter regulations but aimed to improve the current situation, especially given residents’ frustrations with aggressive dog behavior and non-compliance with existing bylaws.

In addition to addressing dog-related safety concerns, the meeting also covered the Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP). The recent hiring of a public health nurse and the anticipated addition of a health inspector were acknowledged as positive steps toward improving the Board’s capacity to implement the CHIP. A conceptual framework for public health was presented, focusing on regulatory compliance, infection control, disease prevention, and promoting healthy lifestyles. The need for a balanced approach encompassing assessment, policy development, and assurance was emphasized.

The Board discussed the necessity of a project manager or coordinator to oversee the CHIP and the need for investment in resources to support public health initiatives. Frustration was expressed about relying on volunteers for tasks requiring structured management and coordination. A dedicated individual to drive this process was deemed essential, particularly in coordinating efforts among various entities within the community. The formation of a steering committee was proposed to provide oversight and ensure diverse stakeholder involvement in the CHIP process.

The idea of integrating various health-related departments under a singular Health and Human Services framework was also explored. It was proposed that merging departments could facilitate better resource allocation and grant funding opportunities without needing new hires. Examples of successful department mergers, such as combining the public health nurse with a nurse advocate at the senior center, were cited. While the potential for increased efficiency was recognized, concerns about the timeline for implementing such structural changes were raised, with estimates suggesting it could take 12 to 16 months.

Updates on health inspections and nursing activities were provided, including reports of two fire incidents at local food establishments, which were resolved, and a downward trend in communicable diseases. However, concerns about a potential rise in COVID-19 cases as winter approaches were noted. An upcoming vaccine clinic was announced, offering a range of immunizations, including COVID-19, flu, shingles, and whooping cough. Monitoring of mosquito-borne diseases like West Nile virus and EEE was also discussed, with no human cases reported in Reading despite positive mosquito detections.