Board of Health

FITCHBURG CITY CLERK Mar 07 2025 10:53 am Office of the Board of Health City Hall 718 Main Street Fitchburg, Massachusetts 01420 978-829-1870 This was a regular meeting of the Board of Health held in the Legislative Building at 700 Main Street and recorded by FATV Studios, Thursday, December 5, 2024. The meeting was called to order by Dr. Bogdasarian. Present: Stephen Curry, Director, Dr. John Bogdasarian, Chair, Ian Murray, BOH Member, Karen Membrino, Clerk Stenographer, Joe Michaud, Greif, Jean Francois Leblanc, Inspector. Public Forum: No one from the public provided any comments. Title 5 – Local Upgrade Request – Jack Maloney Sr. Project Manager, Dillis & Roy, Civil Design Group – 750 Fisher Road Jack Maloney joined the meeting via Zoom and stated he is requesting a Local Upgrade Approval for the design and construction of a proposed Sewage Disposal System located at 750 Fisher Rd. 1. The LUA approval would be a minimum of 4’ of naturally occurring pervious soil below the entire area of the S.A.S (Soil Absorption Soil) shall be provided. System technology note: Remedial use approval, Special Conditions, Section 8(b): if a reduction in the depth of the naturally occurring pervious material layer is necessary, a proposed reduction of up to 2 feet may be allowed in the four feet of naturally occurring pervious material layer as required by 15.240(1). 2. Approving Authority may reduce the required 5 foot separation to 3 foot separation between the bottom of the proposed S.A.S. and the E.S.H.T. (Provided: 3 foot offset). Mr. Maloney presented the system to the Board members. Dr. Bogdasarian made a motion to approve the request at 750 Fisher Road. Motion was 2nd by Mr. Murray, all were in favor, motion carried. Discussion: Local Restriction Amendment to Title 5, 310 CMR 15.00 to require monolithic septic tanks - Jean Francois Leblanc Jean Leblanc stated he is proposing to enhance septic tank regulations in Fitchburg, focusing on Public Health and system longevity for home owners. The proposed regulation would be mandating Monolithic Dual Compartment Septic Tanks. These are single piece tanks with a seal located at the top, above the liquid level to prevent leaks. This contrasts with traditional tanks that have a seam in the middle sealed with mastic, which can fail and leak untreated waste into the ground. These monolithic tanks are double compartment tanks which include a built in concrete separator reducing wave action and ensuring solids settle in the first compartment. This design minimizes solid materials entering and clogging the septic field, prolonging its lifespan. The tanks are a minimal additional cost about $160 more than traditional models, a small increase relative to the $30,000-$50,000 cost of a septic system. Local engineers support the changes and often use these advanced systems in their own homes. Other towns already enforce similar regulations. The proposed regulations would apply only to new septic systems or replacements; existing systems would be grandfathered. The changes would require a public hearing, local newspaper posting and approval by the Department of Environmental Protection. The Board asked questions to Mr. Leblanc. Further information in future meetings. Discussion: Regulations Governing the Practice of Bodyworks, Requested by the FPD. Director Curry stated Massage Therapy Salons are licensed by the state and not the BOH. Many years ago the BOH did license these establishments however the FPD are concerned they are becoming areas of crime prostitution and they are visited often by the police. The BOH are looking to establish regulations to address potential illegal activities and adopt a permit system in the future. More information to come at a future meeting. Discussion: Shared (Incubator Kitchen) Kitchen Permit. Director Curry stated there is a Shared Kitchen facility on Main St and several businesses utilize the kitchen. The State Protection Program is pushing a change in permitting for those facilities. Dir. Curry hopes to have more information on what other communities are doing at a future meeting. Discussion: Local Tobacco Regulations update (Tabled until retail education provided by Tobacco Control) Director Curry stated Tobacco Control are meeting with retailers and answering questions and concerns on regulations. Once that is complete there will be a meeting to discuss adopting or discussing the local regulations that are in place now. Hearing Requests: (Continued from September 12, 2024 for review/update) 1. Greif Paper – 100 Newark Way – Odor Complaints; Joe Michaud-Vice President Manufacturing, Mill Group Dr. Bogdasarian stated he did tour the Greif facility and noted the odors were not offensive odors but resembled wet paper. Mr. Goodwin, resident in Fitchburg stated the odors in West Fitchburg attributed to potential sources like the Wastewater Treatment plant and industrial activities. He understands attempts to identify the odors origin include analyzing wind patterns, tanker activities and sewer line maps. Mr. Goodwin presented the See Click Fix complaint reports that started back in 2019 up until 11/20/24 with 256 odor complaints. Mr. Goodwin expressed frustration over the lack of resolution and its impact on the quality of life A lengthy discussion ensued the members of the BOH members asked numerous questions. Mr. Michaud stated the project at Greif was completed on October 3, 2024 and they are pleased with the way that it is running. They have good Biomass Health, the biological oxygen demand reduction and solids reduction are better than it’s ever been out of the Mill. The quality of the water going to the Wastewater Treatment Plant is much better. Mr. Michaud stated Greif is typically blamed for any odor in the area, however they have been actively trying to find the source and triangulate and unsuccessful to match it to their process. It is in Greif’s best interest to find the cause. Meeting Minutes: Review/Approve meeting minutes of October 10, 2024. Mr. Murray made a motion to approve the October 10, 2024 minutes. Motion was 2nd by Dr. Bogdasarian, all were in favor, motion carried. Announcements: Winter Coat Drive to benefit Fitchburg Public School students-accepting donations of new or clean, gently used winter coats until December 16, 2024. Donations can be made in the City Hall Main Lobby or the Senior Center Lobby, Monday-Friday from 8:30-4:30. E.L. Harvey will be donating 20 bikes to the City of Fitchburg Public School kids who are in need. Arrangements will be made for these deliveries before Christmas. Mr. Murray made a motion to adjourn. Motion was 2nd by Dr. Bogdasarian. Meeting adjourned at 6:00pm.