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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-02-17-BOH-min.pdf LEXINGTON BOARD OF HEALTH MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, February 17th, 2026, 6:30 p.m. Conducted by Remote Participation Board of Health Members in Attendance: Wendy Heiger-Bernays, Ph.D., Chair; David Geller, M.D., Vice Chair (late 6:35 p.m.); Shoolah Escott, MS; Susan Wolf-Fordham, J.D., MPA; Jillian Tung, M.D., M.P.H. Health Department Staff Attendees: Alicia McCartin, Public Health Director; Danetza Yachachin, Assistant Public Health Director Select Board Liaison: Mark Sandeen (Absent) Documents: November 18th, 2025 BOH meeting Minutes Environmental Health Report Public Health Nurse Report Meeting Called to Order: The Board of Health meeting, held on February 17th, 2026, was called to order by Dr. Heiger- Bernays at 6:30 p.m. Minutes Approval: The Board of Health reviewed the minutes from the November 18th, 2025, meeting. Ms. Escott made a motion to accept the minutes as edited. Dr. Tung seconded the motion. The motion was approved unanimously. Open Forum (2 minutes per person; state your name and address) None Staff Reports Ms. McCartin reported that the Assistant Health Director, Danetza Yachachin, continues to train, review Board of Health regulations, and conduct food inspections in Ms. Shah’s absence. Summer camp information has been distributed, and applications are expected. Ms. McCartin stated that Ms. Coleman updated her report to include 2025 current trend data for influenza and COVID-19 and clarified the reporting of active and new TB cases. The Board asked Ms. Yachachin if there was anything noteworthy that had occurred and how her experience has been so far. Ms. Yachachin stated that food establishments are generally well prepared and compliant with food safety regulations. Five re-inspections were conducted, including at least one at Formosa Taipei. Formosa Taipei was temporarily closed due to a water leak in the basement but reopened after completing the necessary corrective actions and a re-inspection by the Health Department. Ms. Yachachin stated that two housing cases remaining open and were expected to be resolved soon. Director’s Report Ms. McCartin stated that the Health Department is preparing for spring events, including summer camps and Patriots’ Day food trucks, permits, and emergency planning with the Fire Chief. Ms. McCartin reported that additional vaccine clinics were held, and wellness clinics continue at the Villages. Ms. Escott asked about National Public Health Week dates. Ms. McCartin confirmed that National Public Health Week will be from Monday, April 6, to Sunday, April 12, 2026. She noted that details will be finalized during the Board of Health meeting on March 17, 2026. Tobacco Control Update Ms. McCartin reported that the Tobacco Compliance Officer did not submit a report this month but is currently scheduling the next round of quarterly tobacco compliance inspections, which are expected to take place within the next month. Dr. Heiger-Bernays noted that the Board may wish to discuss the potential adoption of a Nicotine-Free Generation policy at a future meeting. Board of Health Member - Committee Liaison Reports Turf Working Group: Dr. Heiger-Bernays reported that the working group has not recently met and that the project involving Field #3 at Lincoln Fields is continuing as planned. She noted that renovations at Harrington Fields will result in natural grass fields rather than artificial turf. Dr. Heiger-Bernays also mentioned that several bills related to banning artificial turf are currently before the state legislature and are being monitored. Semi-Quincentennial Commission (LEX250): Dr. Tung reported that planning continues for Patriots’ Day weekend events and that the Town expects larger-than-average crowds, though likely smaller than those seen last year. She also announced an upcoming community event titled “Riding Through History” Artists Reception, scheduled for April 30 at First Parish Church. The event will feature presentations from artists involved in the project, along with food, music, and poetry readings. Invitations with RSVP information will be distributed. Dr. Tung also discussed the public art installation featuring decorative horses placed throughout town. She noted that the lantern-themed horse near Depot Square has received strong public support, and a proposal may be brought before the Historic District Commission to keep the installation in place. Crematory Committee: Dr. Tung reported that the committee has completed its research phase regarding the potential development of a crematory at Westview Cemetery. The committee continues to discuss next steps, including a proposal to hold a public Zoom meeting to gather qualitative feedback from residents. The meeting would aim to collect community input, particularly from faith-based and sociocultural groups, while recognizing that participation will be voluntary and self-selected. Ms. Escott asked whether there had been any response to letters previously submitted by the Board regarding the crematory discussion. Dr. Tung stated that the letters sent to the Crematory committee and the Select Board helped reinforce the need for further discussion and investigation of issues beyond the committee’s scope. New/Old Business: Dr. Heiger-Bernays suggested that the Board revisit the Community Health Needs Assessment, which was last conducted approximately 25 years ago, and examine current demographic trends, community wellness needs, mental health concerns, and accessibility improvements. Dr. Heiger- Bernays mentioned updating Board materials to meet accessibility standards. Ms. Wolf-Fordham asked whether any previous needs assessments were available online and suggested reviewing existing assessments conducted by other town departments, such as the Recreation Department, for relevant data. Adjournment Dr. Geller made a motion to adjourn at 7:05 p.m. Ms. Wolf-Fordham seconded the motion. The motion was approved unanimously.