Board of Health — October 21, 2026

The Fairhaven Board of Health met on October 21, 2026, and approved the minutes of their October 7, 2026 meeting. Health Agent David Flaherty delivered his report, noting that the local COVID-19 positivity rate had decreased to 1.67% from 6.85%. He reported on recent mosquito surveillance concluding with moderate risk for West Nile virus and low risk for EEE, tick safety, rodent complaint management, housing inspections, and upcoming professional trainings. He also noted ongoing efforts to provide Title V clarity to West Island residents.

The board held a lengthy discussion regarding proposed townwide updates to septic system regulations, with specific attention given to denitrifying alternative technologies, lot size implications, and historical sewer connection agreements on West Island. Resident Mr. Pink contributed to the discussion, noting failure rates and maintenance challenges associated with advanced septic systems. Updates were also provided on odor mitigation efforts at the wastewater treatment plant, recent wind turbine complaints and an associated reporting form glitch, and the completed cleanup of 21 Morton Street.

In administrative business, the board discussed appointing member Barbara Axson as a non-voting Board of Health liaison to the Cable Advisory Committee to comply with town bylaws restricting multiple committee memberships while promoting local public health programming. The motion to appoint Axson passed with two affirmative votes and Axson abstaining.

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