The meeting commenced with an in-depth presentation by Oliver Cherky, the shared services coordinator for the South Coast Public Health Collaborative, on preventive measures against ticks and mosquitoes. Cherky emphasized the use of repellents containing DEET, while advising on the limitations of its effectiveness. He recommended wearing protective clothing and suggested treating garments with permethrin to extend their protective capabilities. Cherky also discussed the application of perimeter sprays in yards and stressed the importance of eliminating standing water to prevent mosquito breeding.

Following Cherky’s presentation, Linda Pierce, the public health nurse, elaborated on diseases associated with tick and mosquito bites, highlighting Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, babesiosis, and West Nile virus. She underscored the need for awareness and prompt medical attention to prevent long-term health issues. A participant’s personal experience with Lyme disease and concerns about the Powassan virus sparked further discussion on the importance of regular tick checks and preventive measures. This conversation also delved into the biology of ticks and their disease transmission methods, emphasizing ongoing education and awareness.

The board also explored compliance and regulatory challenges, particularly focusing on a waiver request related to perk rate regulations. Members expressed confidence in building a strong case against granting the waiver, while acknowledging the complexities of the burden of proof in such matters. The debate centered on a recent failed perk rate, with the town prepared to defend its position if the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) were to deny the waiver. Members anticipated a subsequent hearing and expressed readiness to uphold their decision. Stormwater issues were also addressed, with the board deferring authority to the planning board and acknowledging potential inconsistencies with wetland regulations.

In addition to these discussions, the board reviewed updates from Linda Pierce on upcoming blood drives and the challenges faced by the syringe drop-off program. Concerns were raised about unattended items left in hallways, leading to considerations of discontinuing the program if issues persisted. The board emphasized the importance of community cooperation in following proper syringe disposal procedures.

The meeting also covered the appointment of Mary Beth Diglio to the Greater Fall River Tobacco Coalition and the approval of various other fiscal year 2026 appointments. A variance hearing for a property on Shirley Street was conducted, with discussions on septic system replacements and water quality concerns. The board confirmed that water testing would be a condition of the approval process.

Further exploration of operational challenges occurred as the board discussed priorities for FY26, including private well regulations, cesspool compliance strategies, and personnel issues. The need for a part-time clerk was highlighted, linked to the anticipated transition to online permitting. Challenges in the dumpster program were noted, with discussions on enforcement strategies and fee collection difficulties.

Towards the end of the meeting, preparations for River Day were discussed, focusing on tick and mosquito information dissemination. The climate committee provided updates on erosion studies at Gooseberry Island, and complications arose concerning a project on P County Road. The board scrutinized a proposed remedial system that did not meet nitrogen loading requirements, leading to a consensus to explore alternative compliance options.