Board of Health — October 5, 2026

The Fairhaven Board of Health met to conduct regular municipal health business, including approving minutes from the September 9 and September 23 meetings and receiving an update from Health Agent David Flaherty. Flaherty reported a COVID-19 positivity rate of 6.85%, moderate risk for West Nile Virus across the region, ongoing rodent issues, and animal inspector maternity coverage. The board also reviewed proposed regulations regarding innovative and alternative (I/A) denitrification septic systems modeled after Marion's regulations, which would apply to properties within 200 feet of wetlands and resource areas, with plans for two future public hearings.

The board unanimously approved a revised complaint receipt, retention, processing, and reporting policy along with a complaint tracking tool. Board members and public attendees engaged in detailed discussions with DPW Superintendent Vinnie Furtado regarding odor monitoring at the wastewater treatment plant. Furtado explained the technical and financial distinctions between passive $3,000 data-logging H2S sensors and real-time alarming systems costing between $15,000 and $30,000 to fully wire and integrate, while resident John Espindola advocated for real-time monitoring and seeking state assistance.

Resident John Mathew presented neighborhood concerns regarding the Fairhaven Wind LLC turbines, citing noise issues, lack of fire suppression inspections, and the urgent need for a clear decommissioning timeline and transition plan. The board agreed to invite Town Administrator Mark Hickey to the next meeting on October 21, 2026. In other action, the board reviewed 21 Morton Street and unanimously approved an amendment adding an evaluation disclaimer to its kratom regulation, setting a reevaluation date for August 2028 or when state or federal authorities deem necessary.

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