2008-03-13 Board of Health Minutes

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ECFIV D BOARD OF HEALTH MEETING U; W C L MINUTES READING, MASS. March 13, 2008 1008 DEC 10 A IQ; 2 2 The Board of Health meeting was called to order on March 13, 2008 at 6:05 pm by Chairman Barbara Meade at the Berger Room, Town Hall. Those present at the meeting were Barbara Meade Chair, Colleen Seferian, and Dr. David Singer. In attendance: Larry Ramdin, Staff Liaison/ Health Services Administrator. OLD BUSINESS Minutes February 14, 2008 were read and approved 3:0:0 NEXT ORDER OF BUSINESS Public Health Regionalization The Board was advised that the Public Health regionalization project is coming to fruition they are three models that re being discussed, the models will be based on geography and needs, participation is voluntary, and there will not be a "one size fits all model" the state is moving forward and a bill will be filed shortly to make necessary legal changes to facilitate regionalization. There are plans to set minimum qualification and training standards. Further to give authority to Boards of Health to participate in regional health programs. There are some concerns about employee benefits and that is to be addressed. There will be some type of funding available most likely on a capitation basis and participation will be for a minimum of 3 years. There are plans to run a model project within the next year. Mosquito Control Update The No Spray notices were posted and a list is developed , so that residents can request that their home are not sprayed. The Board was advised that Mosquito control will be a 3 phase approach, treatment of the swamps with BTI - Bacillus Thurigenisis, Spraying, and treatment of the catchment basins. The Board also asked about toxicity of the BTI and was advised that it was a biocide in that it is a naturally occurring and toxic to mosquitoes and insects, there is no info on lethality for humans. Administrative report The annual report was presented in addition to the monthly report. The Board enquired about attendance at RCASA meetings, at this time Health Division staff will not attend RCASA meetings. The Health Administrator has provided information on the recently concluded public Health Emergency Preparedness Seminar in Atlanta. the Board was also advised that the downtown area will be resdesigned. There being no other business Colleen Seferian made a motion to adjourn seconded by Barbara Meade with a 3:0:0 vote. Meeting adjourned 8:35 pm.