The Duxbury Board of Health convened Thursday to tackle a range of public health issues, including seasonal threats posed by arboviruses and waterborne bacteria. The Health Agent updated the board on West Nile Virus and EEE levels, noting that while surrounding towns have seen positive samples, Duxbury remains in the low to moderate risk categories. A significant portion of the update focused on a summer Vibrio outbreak that briefly shuttered the local shellfishing industry. The Division of Marine Fisheries closed the oyster beds because the water was just too warm and that's where it's stemming from, the Health Agent explained, clarifying that the issue was environmental rather than due to poor handling. Dr. Brumley added that when water temperatures rise, the bacterial counts can overwhelm their ability to clear it, leading to infection risks for those consuming raw oysters.

Water quality and infrastructure remained a priority as the board discussed pilot testing for PFAS treatment at the Tremont and Depot wells. Progress on the McNeel landfill capping continues to wait on Selectboard action, though the town is moving forward with plans to monitor abutting properties. The Chair expressed a need for continued oversight, asking, I'm just wondering where we're at with that monitoring plan and if we are anywhere with that. The board also reviewed the successful resolution of a mercury spill from a residential barometer, which required a response from the state Hazmat team. It triggered a pretty significant response from police and fire, the Health Agent noted, though air quality testing confirmed the home remained habitable.

Regarding residential development, the board discussed the increasing frequency of Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) applications and the complexities of septic compliance. The Health Agent noted that state guidance allows for the elimination of bedrooms in existing houses to offset the flow of a new ADU, but emphasized that oversight is critical. There's a lot of moving parts, you know, and septic is a big one, the agent stated, highlighting that the planning board now conducts site plan reviews to ensure proper property setbacks. Other updates included the status of a demolition permit for 934 Temple Street and an upcoming community vaccination clinic scheduled for early October.