Shutesbury Board of Health Approves Contingency Plan for Water Well Permit Amid Financial Concerns
- Meeting Overview:
During the Shutesbury Board of Health meeting on August 20, 2025, members discussed a issue concerning a dry well on Great Pines, which has left a household, including a child, without water for several weeks. The situation arose after a new deeper well was drilled across the road, leading to the drying up of the existing shallow well. The Board deliberated on issuing a well permit for a new site, pending receipt of appropriate information, to expedite the process and avoid further delay for the affected residents. Despite the urgency, financial constraints appear to hinder progress, as there are no apparent financial aid programs available for well drilling.
Board members expressed concern over the financial burden of drilling a new well, estimated to cost between $10,000 and $15,000, and discussed the lack of available grant money for well replacement, as current funds are designated for septic system repairs. In light of these challenges, the Board unanimously agreed to authorize a contingency plan allowing the issuance of the well permit as soon as a formal application is received. This decision aims to minimize any additional waiting time for the residents.
Additionally, the Board received updates on the Valley Health Collaborative’s new hire, an inspector who will begin in September. This individual is expected to conduct various inspections, including food service and housing, although specifics were not fully detailed. The hiring reflects ongoing efforts to bolster local health inspection capacities.
The Board also discussed upcoming health initiatives, including a flu clinic planned for October, with high turnout anticipated based on previous years. Talks with local schools are underway to finalize scheduling. Furthermore, the Board noted the continuation of well-baby clinics, which are part of a broader public health initiative.
Rebecca Torres
Board of Health Officials:
Catherine Hilton, Wm Levine, Norene Pease, Arleen Read, Garrett Simonsen, Sarah Fiske (Public Health Nurse), Claudia Sarti (Health Agent)
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Meeting Type:
Board of Health
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
08/20/2025
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Recording Published:
09/02/2025
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Duration:
23 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Massachusetts
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County:
Franklin County
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Towns:
Shutesbury
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