1992-10-05 Board of Health Minutes

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Minutes October 5, 1992 The Board of Health meeting came to order at 5:35 pm Mond ay,aOc-'' tober 5, 1992 in the Berger Room of Town Hall. Present were Chair James Nugent, members Cathy Baranofsky, Bill Murphy, staff Ruth Cogan. Also in attendance were Acting Public Works Director Ted McIntire, Chair of the Conservation Commission Jim Biller, Weston and Sampson staff Pat Connelly and James Matz and the fol- lowing members of the Hazardous Waste Committee: Foy Johnson, Regina Snyder, Kevin Hayes, Gretchen Latowsky, Phillip Doherty, Steve Oston and citizen Martin Offenhauer. An introduction of all people present was given. McIntire gave an overview of the area and the location of the wells. He gave a history of which wells were being used, when and why as well as a projection of what would be happaning in the immediate future. He explained the location and schedule of the sampling points along ther river. He showed a map of the water distribution system and explained where we were getting our water. He noted that precautions have been taken to ensure ade- quate fire protection flow. The Woburn connection has been problematic due to pressure differentials; Weston and Sampson is working to resolve this issue. We will not be using North Read- ing water except as a last resort. The Revay well is being used. At its last test in July its sodium level was 99 mg/liter. As we cannot tell people exactly when that water will be in the lines and which parts of Town are receiving it, it is being recommended that people on a sodium restricted diet consult their physician. Offenhauer recommended that the Town engage separate counsel ex- perinced in recovering costs in these types of situations as there are specific requirements for recovery. Connelly gave a presentation about the river sampling and test- ing. The initial identification of benzene in the river looks like it was a "slug" from the pump and treat process. 7 monitor- ing wells have been installed with depths of 5 and 20 feet. Ad- ditional wells are being installed now at the highway. A suggestion was made by Murphy about installing a hotline to answer people's questions. It was suggested converting the Recy- cling Hot Line for this purpose. The meeting adjourned at 6:45 pm Respectfully submitted, r, Ruth ZACogan,~ PH Director