The Duxbury Board of Health convened to address property improvements and rising public health concerns, beginning with two variance requests for private irrigation wells. Freeman Boon, representing homeowners at 43 Simons Drive and 27 Chestnut Street, explained that the residents are looking to maintain their landscapes while reducing the burden on the municipal supply. Boon noted, They'd like to put in an irrigation well on their property so they can water their lawn and try to get off town water. While Duxbury regulations require a 100-foot setback between wells and septic leaching fields, both properties cited steep slopes and existing retaining walls as barriers to total compliance.

During the discussion for 43 Simons Drive, Board member Melissa noted that while the property's septic system dates back to 1985, the proposed distance of over 83 feet exceeded the state’s minimum requirements. She remarked, It's just weighing any concern from an older system against the location of the proposed well. But I mean that's a pretty good distance. Health Agent Lauren added, It looks like the it's the existing system from 1985, confirming the age of the infrastructure. To mitigate health risks, the board mandated that no external faucets be connected to the non-potable irrigation lines. Motion Made by the Chair to grant the variance to Duxbury Supplemental Rules and Regulations 2.063G to allow the construction of irrigation well to be 83.4 feet from the existing soil absorption system versus the required 100 feet. Motion Passed 3-0. A similar Motion Made by the Chair to grant the variance to the Duxbury Supplemental Rules and Regulations 2.063G to allow the construction of an irrigation well to be 71.4 feet from the existing soil absorption system at 86.5 feet from the reserve area versus the required 100 feet. Motion Passed 4-0.

Health Agent Lauren presented a sobering update on regional tick-borne illnesses, reporting a 9% increase in Lyme disease across a six-town collaborative. She highlighted that the increased risk of contacting tick-borne illness is highest in adults over 60 in particular men. Member Mike inquired about further preventative measures, asking, Any other type of recommendations besides public education? Lauren also updated the board on a new PFAS pilot system at the Depot Well and shared resident concerns regarding Eversource’s rollout of smart meters. She stated, Eversource is pushing out these smart meters... there's lots of concern about radiation. Member Bruce, participating remotely, reviewed the technical plans for the evening's votes, stating, I can see the plan and everything. I'm on my phone.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:35 PM