Great Barrington Board of Health Meeting - January 8, 2026

The Great Barrington Board of Health met on January 8, 2026, at 6:32 PM in a hybrid format (remote and in-person). Board members present: Peter Stanton, Ruby, and Health Agent Rebecca. The meeting focused on setting 2026 goals and priorities, with extensive discussion on staff hiring and retention, budget constraints, fee schedule revisions, composting, solid waste regulations, and potential nuisance regulations. The meeting also included approval of December minutes, department updates, and public comment.

Consent Calendar

• Approval of Minutes (December 2025): The board unanimously approved the December meeting minutes by roll call vote.

Public Comments & Testimony

• Daniel Sites (31 Pleasant Street): Expressed strong support for recent federal health agency changes under HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., including ending animal experimentation, new food pyramid emphasizing nutrient-dense foods, removal of conflicts of interest at the CDC, and new childhood vaccine guidelines. He criticized the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for considering policies diverging from federal direction, suggesting it may be influenced by pharmaceutical industry interests. He recommended the book Vaccines Amen to board members and thanked them for their work.

Discussion Items

• Staff Hiring and Retention (Top Priority): Health Agent Rebecca reported that the department has one candidate for the health inspector position and is preparing an appointment letter. She detailed challenges: the position is entry-level with low pay ($30–$33/hour), leading to turnover; inspectors often leave after training for better-paying regional positions. Board members Peter and Ruby emphasized the need for competitive salaries to retain staff. Ruby noted salary range flexibility could attract experienced candidates. Rebecca stated the town manager’s directive requires any salary increases to be offset by fee increases or grants, prompting a review of the fee schedule.
• Fee Schedule Review: Rebecca proposed reviewing and increasing fees (e.g., restaurant permits from $50) to align with the cost of service and generate revenue for higher salaries. The board agreed to move this to a high priority and hold a public hearing at the February 5, 2026 meeting. Members expressed a desire to complete the review in a single meeting if possible.
• Public Health Nuisance Regulations: Rebecca listed development of local regulations for issues like solar noise and brown water as a high priority. Ruby reported limited models from other towns’ noise ordinances. The board acknowledged this will be a long-term effort. Rebecca noted the Zoning Board chair has offered to collaborate on solar-related regulations.
• Composting Program and Solid Waste: Rebecca reported a $460 grant for the food waste diversion program, insufficient to cover costs. The board discussed potential service fees, equipment purchases, and using Recyclable Materials Recovery (RDP) funds. Ruby advocated for updating solid waste hauler regulations to encourage dual-stream recycling and reduce costs. The board agreed this is an ongoing challenge requiring further conversation with the Department of Public Works.
• Green Committee: Rebecca suggested the board consider recommending a Sustainability/Green Committee to the Select Board; the town manager supported the idea. However, the board considered it lower priority and agreed to table it. Rebecca offered to draft a recommendation letter.
• PFAS and Well Testing: The board discussed the lack of state regulations for PFAS testing in private wells. Peter expressed concern that mandating testing at property transfer would unfairly burden sellers with cleanup costs. Rebecca will research state recommendations and consider integrating PFAS testing into local well regulations.
• Other Updates:
  • Rebecca proposed acquiring a town-owned vehicle for inspectors to reduce personal vehicle wear and tear; Ruby noted mileage reimbursement is already comprehensive.
  • Rebecca reported that George B’s two properties on West Plain Road are vacant and undergoing repairs; the board agreed to handle updates through department reports rather than requiring his personal appearance.
  • Open meeting law training certificates have been submitted.
  • Nancy Ruderman’s food manager certification classes were announced and will be posted on the town website.

Key Outcomes

• December 2024 minutes approved (unanimous).
• Fee schedule review designated high priority; public hearing set for February 5, 2026.
• Staff recruitment continues; appointment letter to be drafted for one candidate.
• Development of public health nuisance regulations will proceed, with collaboration from the Zoning Board.
• Composting program funding remains unresolved; board will explore alternative funding mechanisms.
• Green committee recommendation to Select Board to be drafted by Health Agent.
• PFAS testing policy to be researched further.
• George B property updates to be handled administratively.
• Meeting adjourned by unanimous vote.