00:59The operational plan covers right-of-way 346, scheduled for treatment from June 1 to October 18, and aims to maintain power line clearance and access, while controlling invasive species. Sensitive areas, as defined by state regulations, include limited and no-spray zones, with particular setbacks for water supply wells. Lawson’s report underscored the importance of ensuring abandoned wells are properly capped to prevent groundwater contamination. The board members expressed a collective desire for Eversource to acknowledge their environmental health concerns more respectfully.

12:32The board also addressed a proposal to change the inspection period for hazardous materials from a calendar year to a fiscal year. This adjustment aims to streamline the process for businesses, notably hotels, by extending the permit period to 18 months, thereby aligning all applications with the calendar year. This proposal received unanimous support.

15:36Following this, the board reviewed a grant application for 2026, which required adjusting funding allocations to meet a $60,000 target. A suggestion was made to deduct $500 from each donation, leaving a balance of $315. It was proposed that this amount be allocated to the Yarmouth food pantry, which had recently lost significant funding. The motion to redirect funds was unanimously approved.

23:35The meeting also delved into the health department’s fee schedules. Approximately a hundred fees were examined, with proposed adjustments reflecting the man-hours required for various services. The board compared their fees with six other towns to ensure competitiveness. Proposed changes included modest increases, such as a $20 rise for Title 5 system repairs and a $35 hike for food service fees. The board stressed their goal of breaking even, particularly reducing fees for nonprofit organizations, rather than generating profit.

36:04The ongoing efforts of the Plastic Reduction Committee were also a focal point. The committee met on May 12th, with members from local businesses and the select board participating. A key discussion point was the bylaw aimed at reducing plastic use in retail establishments. Divergent views emerged on whether to discard the existing bylaw or proceed with its implementation. The urgency of the situation was apparent, given the January 1, 2026, compliance deadline. Participants noted a lack of awareness about the specific plastics included in the ban, prompting plans for future meetings with visual aids to clarify the details.

33:16Additionally, the board addressed a hoarding situation on NSET Road in West Yarmouth. The property owner was in touch with the health department and participating in a class to address hoarding behaviors. The board expressed cautious optimism about the owner’s willingness to resolve the issue, acknowledging the mental health challenges involved.

31:19The meeting also covered updates from the Arma Substance Abuse Committee, which discussed plans for an event in October and the need for volunteers to support children affected by parental substance abuse.