At the heart of the Townsend Board of Health’s recent meeting was the approval of local upgrade variances for septic systems. The property on Sea Circle faced issues that required more fill than permitted under Title 5 regulations. The board approved a variance to address this, allowing the installation to move forward. Similarly, on Adams Road, the proposed new construction involved the demolition of existing structures and the establishment of a Presby septic system. The board granted a variance to remove the filter on the septic tank, facilitating the project’s progression.

Another point of discussion was the length of the Shaw’s contract, with the board expressing a preference for a five-year term. This decision was made with acknowledgment of community feedback that showed support for a shorter, three-year contract.

Financial matters also took center stage as the board reviewed and approved invoices for various services, including recycling and police details. Notably, the board deliberated over the purchase of a magnetic sweeper for the recycling center, aimed at enhancing the facility’s safety and cleanliness by picking up nails and other metal debris.

The board’s fiscal responsibilities extended to discussions around the pricing of compost bins and kitchen scrap buckets. A motion was made to double the price of compost bins from $25 to $50 and increase kitchen scrap buckets from $5 to $10, driven by the need to avoid losses on these items.

The success of the mattress removal program was mentioned, with the removal of 26 mattresses and no negative feedback from the community. This program’s positive impact was coupled with the acknowledgment that the board had exceeded its $6,000 credit for the recycling center. To address the disposal costs of some electronics, the board considered utilizing grant money.

In the arena of labor relations, the meeting touched upon the Union contract, specifically the $850 clothing allowance. An individual had purchased items such as rain boots, a raincoat, and gloves using this allowance. This detail exemplifies the board’s oversight of employment conditions and benefits.

Moreover, the board engaged in a debate regarding the carefulness required in documenting meeting minutes and the necessity of an update on regulations currently entangled in state litigation.

A final noteworthy discussion was the potential addition of a new member, referred to only as Todd. The board debated the process of engagement with Todd to explore his interest and suitability for joining the board.