A key highlight of the meeting was the approval of a maternal wellness program, which received robust support from the Board. The initiative will involve sending high-quality postcards to new parents, emphasizing care and privacy. The program’s aim is to promote maternal health and provide resources to new families in the community. This initiative aligns with the nursing staff’s responsibilities and has been praised by Dr. Wong, the medical director, as “much needed.” The Board discussed plans to coordinate with nursing staff to ensure alignment on objectives and standing orders following training sessions.

The meeting also addressed the rise in COVID-19 cases. Health officials reported an increase in cases from both hospitals and laboratories, though no influenza cases had been observed. The Board reiterated the importance of following health guidelines, encouraging residents to stay home when sick and adhere to CDC recommendations for isolation and testing. The current guidance includes a five-day isolation period after a positive COVID result, with continued testing as symptoms dictate.

In another development, the Board discussed the new e-permitting system for local businesses, which aims to streamline the permitting process for food establishments. Since its implementation in mid-November, approximately one-third of the 604 food establishments in Southwick have submitted applications. The transition to this system is anticipated to ease permit tracking in the future, though it has faced challenges this year due to dual tracking requirements with the old system.

The Board also examined the status of various local food establishments. One establishment, a patisserie, experienced a minor kitchen fire but has since addressed the issue and resumed operations. Another restaurant, Fusion, is undergoing changes, including a new chef and potential rebranding. Meanwhile, a restaurant referred to as Roma is working towards opening a takeout service by the end of the month, with plans to retain a similar menu to the previous operator and introduce a bar and banquet room.

There was an unexpected discussion on emergency beaver trapping, highlighting the Board’s role in issuing permits when beaver-related issues, such as flooding or impacts on utility lines, arise. The Board clarified that permits are issued based on verifiable impacts rather than a simple desire to remove beavers, aligning with conservation efforts and state wildlife laws.

The Board also provided updates on local housing matters. A property on Patriot Way underwent a final inspection related to a repair, while on Curtis Road, an eviction process involving the bank and squatters was noted. The Board chose not to issue a violation notice for the latter, as cleanup could not proceed until the occupants vacated. Meanwhile, repairs on Bungalow Street were completed, though hot water temperature concerns persist, with a reinspection planned.

Food truck and vendor compliance was another topic of concern. The Tai Chili food truck passed inspection for an upcoming local event, while the Cinnamon Bun Saloon was operating without a proper permit. The Board emphasized the need for inspections and compliance, especially for vendors preparing food on-site. Similarly, a frozen meat truck at Tractor Supply secured necessary permits after initial confusion.