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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-04-21-BOH-min.docx LEXINGTON BOARD OF HEALTH MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, April 21st, 2026, 6:30 p.m. Conducted by Remote Participation Board of Health Members in Attendance: Wendy Heiger-Bernays, Ph.D., Chair; 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 Absent: David Geller, M.D., Vice Chair; Select Board Liaison: Mark Sandeen Documents: March 17, 2026, Meeting Minutes Susan Chapnick, MS Turf Presentation Sarah Evans, PhD Turf Presentation Pool Variance Request Environmental Health Report Public Health Nurse Report Clinical Advisory: Alpha-Gal Syndrome and Required Reporting March 19, 2026 Meeting Called to Order: The Board of Health meeting, held on April 20, 2026, was called to order by Dr. Heiger-Bernays at 6:30 p.m. Minutes Approval: th The Board of Health reviewed the minutes of the March 17, 2026, meeting. Dr. Tung made a motion to accept the minutes as edited. Ms. Wolf-Fordham seconded the motion. The motion was approved unanimously. Open Forum (2 minutes per person, state your name and address) None National Public Health Week Re-cap Ms. McCartin provided an update on the events that occurred during National Public Health th Week, which was April 6-11. The Health Department partnered with the Recreation Department, Community Center, and Human Services to offer events during National Public Health Week. Board of Health members stated they enjoyed the events that they went to during the week. Artificial Turf Findings Dr. Heiger-Bernays invited Susan Chapnick, MS, and Sarah Evans, PhD, to present on artificial turf. Dr. Heiger- Bernays stated that both she and the previous Health Director were part of the turf working group in town and that especially in public health, it’s important that we continually revisit data and reassess information to ensure our perspectives and decisions are grounded in the best available evidence, given that there are some artificial turf fields in town and that the town is considering transitioning at least one to natural turf. No vote will be taken as this is for informational purposes. Dr. Sarah Evans introduced herself as an associate professor in environmental medicine at the ICANN School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City. She is working with a team of researchers who are looking at how environmental exposures, particularly those that occur early in life, affect health across the lifespan. She also works with the Region 2 Pediatric Environmental Health Specialty Unit, which is a national network that corresponds to the EPA regions across the country, that has specially trained pediatricians and others who understand how to recognize, prevent, and treat diseases of environmental origin. She discussed how children’s play on artificial turf differs from adults’ play due to children being closer to the ground, where a lot of the chemicals and dust settle. They naturally put their hands in their mouths, and they’re less able to regulate their body temperatures, making harmful exposures more likely. Studies from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) indicate that children experience higher chemical exposures than adults. She described the appearance of artificial turf as a composite product consisting of plastic grass fibers, backing materials, and infill, including recycled tire rubber or alternative materials. Studies indicate that these components may contain a wide range of chemicals, including substances linked to cancer, neurological effects, reproductive toxicity, and respiratory irritation. Exposure pathways include inhalation, skin contact, open wounds, and ingestion of infill particles. Dr. Evans highlighted concerns about PFAS “forever chemicals”, which have been detected in some turf materials and are associated with multiple adverse health outcomes, including cancer and endocrine disruption. She also discussed microplastics, noting that turf fields are a significant source of environmental microplastic pollution, with particles entering air, waterways, and potentially human tissues. Emerging research has linked microplastics to cardiovascular and neurological health effects, though studies are ongoing. Heat exposure was identified as another major concern, with artificial turf surfaces reaching temperatures significantly higher than natural grass and sometimes exceeding safe thresholds for burns and heat-related illness. She also summarized research suggesting higher rates of certain injuries on artificial turf compared to natural grass, particularly knee, ankle, and foot injuries, as well as possible increased risk of concussion, especially under poor maintenance conditions. She mentioned that for the World Cup, the turf on the National Football League (NFL) fields is being converted to grass from artificial turf and that many players wish it would stay that way. Dr. Evans emphasized that while uncertainties remain regarding exact exposure levels and health outcomes, the existing evidence supports minimizing exposure where possible. She also noted the importance of maintaining opportunities for safe physical activity, especially during the heat, and acknowledged natural grass as a viable alternative for many communities. Susan Chapnick introduced herself and stated that she has a Master's degree in Marine Science and has been working in environmental chemistry for most of her career. She is currently the vice chair and former chair of the Conservation Commission in Arlington. She has worked with Dr. Heiger-Bernays for many years and was a guest lecturer at Boston University on how to interpret data and what data quality is for public health specialists. She is an appointed member of the MassDEP Advisory Commission, and retired from her company, New Environmental Horizons. They were a woman-owned company that helped MassDEP as well as NOAA, US EPA, and other entities to write plans to clean up hazardous waste sites and oil spills. She explained that chemicals from artificial turf can enter the environment through leaching into stormwater, snowmelt, groundwater, surface water, soils, and sediments. In addition to dissolved chemicals, physical degradation of turf materials results in the release of microplastics and nanoplastics due to weathering, UV exposure, and mechanical abrasion from use. She emphasized that both turf fibers and infill materials degrade over time and can be transported off-site despite perimeter drainage systems, which only partially capture debris. She provided visual examples of turf degradation and particle loss in local fields. Key contaminants discussed included metals such as zinc and lead, which are present in tire- derived infill at high concentrations. She noted that zinc levels in crumb rubber can exceed regulatory soil cleanup thresholds and that stormwater runoff from artificial turf fields has been shown in studies to exceed EPA aquatic toxicity criteria. She cited research from Connecticut demonstrating elevated zinc levels and toxicity in runoff from multiple artificial turf fields. She also highlighted concerns about 6PPD-quinone, a chemical derived from tire additives that has been linked to acute toxicity in aquatic life, particularly fish species such as salmon and trout. EPA has identified extremely low aquatic toxicity thresholds for this compound, and studies have detected it in stormwater runoff from fields containing tire crumb rubber. Additional concerns included PFAS contamination, noting that measurement is complex and that regulatory monitoring typically covers only a fraction of thousands of PFAS compounds. She referenced state-level concern, including a letter from Rhode Island environmental and health agencies warning of potential PFAS migration from artificial turf into groundwater and drinking water supplies. She discussed microplastic pollution, noting that artificial turf is a significant source of plastic debris entering the environment. She referenced peer-reviewed research identifying turf as a contributor to urban microplastic loads and emphasized that plastic fibers and infill materials are continuously released into surrounding ecosystems. Broader environmental impacts were also addressed, including loss of habitat, disruption of soil ecosystems and microbiomes, reduced biodiversity, and elimination of wildlife corridors due to the conversion of natural land to synthetic surfaces. She discussed the impact of heat with artificial turf contributing to urban heat island effects due to high surface temperatures and a lack of evapotranspiration compared to natural grass. She discussed the impacts artificial turf has on stormwater management. She argued that artificial turf fields function as impervious surfaces under EPA definitions due to engineered drainage systems that redirect runoff rather than allowing natural infiltration. She noted that filtration systems used in these installations are insufficient to capture dissolved chemicals and smaller plastic particles. Lifecycle environmental impacts were summarized, including fossil fuel use in manufacturing, emissions during use and disposal, and limited recyclability. She also expressed skepticism regarding claims of advanced recycling, describing processes such as pyrolysis as producing low- value fuels rather than meaningful plastic recovery. Many facilities receiving artificial turf ultimately repurpose the material rather than fully recycling it. She noted that artificial turf fields typically require replacement approximately every 10 years and may have higher lifecycle costs compared to natural grass fields. She concluded that environmental impacts are cumulative and location-dependent, particularly when fields are sited near existing sources of pollution or in urban heat islands. She discussed the cost comparison of natural fields versus artificial fields over 20 years, showing that artificial fields cost significantly more than natural grass over time. She suggested that organically managed natural grass fields represent a viable alternative for many communities, potentially in combination with other field types depending on local needs. Dr. Heiger-Bernays thanked Ms. Chapnick and Dr. Evans for the information they shared. She opened it up to the Board for questions. Ms. Wolf-Fordham asked if there was a community that had written a policy addressing their playing fields, or a similar policy that we should know about as we're educating ourselves. Ms. Chapnick responded that there is no model policy in Massachusetts, and there have been bills in the State House for the last few years to ban artificial turf on municipal public lands due to zinc, plastic pollution, and PFAS. Several towns in Massachusetts have banned artificial turf due to various reasons, such as Oak Bluffs Board of Health on Martha's Vineyard, and the town of Sharon put a moratorium, and then banned it. The Town of Arlington produced a report on artificial turf, which included recommendations to the town. Ms. Wolf-Fordham asked if Dr. Evans or Ms. Chapnick had any recommendations for addressing extreme heat impacts, especially related to artificial turf or outdoor play, so the town can incorporate that into the extreme heat plan before it is finalized. Ms. Chapnick stated that Burlington had a guideline, but she was unable to locate it. Also, Montgomery County, Maryland, has heat guidance for athletics that includes turf that you can find online. There is also the Collaborative for Health and Environment (CHE), which has an artificial turf and playground, as well as municipal and regional initiatives. Dr. Tung asked whether anyone had heard claims that background levels of PFAS in soil and grass are such that they may be higher than what one may find in artificial turf, and how someone would respond to that. Ms. Chapnick responded that it’s an additive and that impacts are not based only on comparing background levels. Even if PFAS already exists in soil or grass, adding artificial turf can still increase overall contamination and introduce new exposure pathways through leaching, stormwater flow, and subsurface drainage systems. A surface-soil comparison is too simplistic because it does not account for how contaminants move through engineered drainage and where they ultimately discharge. Under environmental regulatory approaches like the Massachusetts Contingency Plan, adding contaminants can still be significant even when background levels already exist. PFAS is only one concern among several; artificial turf involves multiple chemicals, microplastics, and environmental pathways that should be considered together. Ms. Escott asked what a safe and environmentally appropriate way is to dispose of artificial turf when it is removed or replaced, and whether current recycling or disposal methods are actually effective or adequate. Dr. Evans responded that there is no truly safe or fully effective large-scale disposal or recycling system for artificial turf. In practice, many proposed recycling facilities are not operational, leaving removed turf stockpiled or sent to lined landfills as a containment measure, which limits but does not eliminate environmental risks. Even these disposal methods are imperfect, and recycled tire crumb rubber similarly only delays the waste problem, since turf typically needs replacement every 8–10 years. Mr. Sandeen asked if microplastics from artificial turf, including whether they increase over time through maintenance and replacement, and whether alternative infill materials also contribute to microplastic pollution and potential impacts on water systems. Dr. Evans and Ms. Chapnick responded that there are concerns about microplastic release from artificial turf regardless of the type of infill used. While some alternative infills (like Brockville or other organic materials) are less studied, there are still potential environmental impacts, such as floating material or effects on soil organisms like earthworms. Some infills, like EPDM, are still plastic-based, and even sand, though not plastic, may contain metals and have not been well studied in this context. Importantly, research shows that microplastics are released not only from infill but also from the plastic grass fibers themselves, which degrade over time and can enter waterways. One study found that a significant portion of microplastics in nearby waterways came from turf fibers. Overall, even non-rubber infills do not eliminate microplastic concerns, since turf systems themselves continuously shed plastic particles. Dr. Heiger-Bernays opened it up to questions from the public. Ricky Pappo, 16 Blossomcrest Rd, also a Precinct 2 Town Meeting Member and Chair of the Lexington Climate Action Network. They thank the presenters for including climate considerations, particularly the issue of heat from artificial turf surfaces, and emphasize concerns about increasing heat and its impacts on children and adults. They note that the information shared was useful for a local “Give Grass a Chance” campaign that supported the development of natural grass fields instead of artificial turf. Mr. Pappo’s main request was that the presentation be widely shared with the community, especially the Recreation Department, and asks whether there is a way to ensure this happens or whether the recording can be distributed once available. Dr. Heiger-Bernays stated that yes, the meeting is recorded and that the presentation will be available. Jeanne Krieger, a town meeting member from Precinct 3, is associated with the campaign to get grass on one of our fields. She asked if there are studies that provide concrete information about what chemicals are leaching from poured-in-place rubber playground surfaces, and what the environmental impacts of those chemicals are. Dr. Evans responded that yes, poured-in-place surfacing usually has a recycled tire rubber base with a colored rubber or plastic top layer. These materials can break down over time, sometimes exposing the underlying rubber. We do know they can get very hot in sunlight, often hotter than artificial turf. A federal review by the Consumer Product Safety Commission looked at recycled tire crumb but did not complete a full exposure assessment for children. It also found very little direct research on playground surfaces. Observations show children often engage in hand-to- mouth and close-contact behaviors on these surfaces, which could increase potential exposure. While data is limited, there are plausible exposure and heat concerns, and safer alternatives like engineered wood fiber are often recommended when possible. Ms. Escott left the meeting at 7:55 pm. Cindy Arens, 7 Kitson Park Drive, who is chair of the Sustainable Lexington Committee and a town meeting member for Precinct 3, also served on the turf working group. She asked if there is any effort by EPA, MassDEP, or other agencies to standardize testing methods for leachate from artificial turf or plastic field materials, and whether such standards are likely to be required in the future. Dr. Evans responded that there are no specific standards for testing leachate from these materials. However, in environmental chemistry, the widely accepted method is the EPA SPLP test (Method 1312), which simulates acid rain conditions to evaluate what chemicals leach from a material. The resulting leachate can then be analyzed using standard EPA methods for substances like PFAS, lead, zinc, and PAHs. Dr. Heiger-Bernays thanked Dr. Evans and Ms. Chapnick for coming to the Board of Health meeting. Semi-Public Pool Variances Dr. Tung made a motion that the Lexington Board of Health grant the variance request from the requirement of lifeguards for the safe operation of pools as listed under Article XVI, Bathing Places § 155-116. In addition, all requirements of 105 CMR 435.23 (2) shall be met, including all signage which includes: “Warning No Lifeguard on Duty” in easy to read, legible letters which are at least four inches high “Children under age 16 should not use swimming pool without an adult in attendance” and another sign that states, “Adults should not swim alone.” This variance applies only to the following pool facilities, which have made the request in writing. They are listed as follows: Adams, Moon Hill, Aloft, Element, Brookhaven, Waterstone, Five Fields, Peacock Farm, Drummer Boy, Pleasant Brook, Emerson Gardens. This Variance will expire at the Seasonal pool expiration date, or Annual pool expiration date, or upon notification of an unsafe operating condition at a specific facility. Ms. Wolf-Fordham seconded the motion. The motion was approved unanimously. Dr. Tung made a motion that the Lexington Board of Health approve the permit application for the pool permit for 475 Bedford St Indoor Pool under the conditions that all swim coaches submit their Life Guard Certification as part of the permit application. This variance will expire at the annual pool expiration date to be reviewed by the Lexington Board of Health on or before that date or upon notification of an unsafe operating condition at a specific facility. Ms. Wolf- Fordham seconded the motion. The motion was approved unanimously. Tobacco Control No updates. Health Staff Reports: Ms. McCartin provided an update to the Public Health Nurse’s report. There were eighteen th people who came to the medical waste day on April 11. The Health Department applied for and received two grants, one from the Dana Home and the other from the Community Endowment of Lexington. These grants would be used to help fund the Vaccine in Place program that Ms. Coleman, the Public Health Nurse, has been working on. Ms. Coleman has been working towards expanding the vaccines beyond the COVID and flu vaccines offered to homebound residents, and to offer more vaccines. The Board of Health members commended and appreciated Ms. Coleman’s efforts and the Health Department staff for applying for and being awarded those grants, and that there was a lot of community support for this program. Ms. Yachachin updated the Board on the trainings and meetings she has attended, and she will be attending a Crisis and Emergency Risk Communications training in the next few weeks. She also attended her first Patriots’ Day, and it was a great experience. Director’s Report Ms. McCartin reported that she attended the NACCHO Preparedness Summit in Baltimore about public health emergencies and attended a variety of sessions, including sharing stories from emergencies, floods, and a panel discussing planning efforts for the upcoming FIFA World Cup. Ms. McCartin updated the Board on the Alpha-gal advisory that was issued by Mass DPH. The st advisory provided an update on alpha-gal reporting that would begin on April 1. The advisory lets people know what Alpha-gal is and the red meat allergy and expands public awareness of the symptoms. Alpha-gal was mainly seen on the Cape and islands, and more cases are being reported across Massachusetts. Ms. McCartin updated the Board that this information will be on the town’s website. Dr. Heiger-Bernays commented that there should be some information about the environmental impacts of backyard spraying. Ms. McCartin updated the Board on Patriots’ Day, and that there were seven food trucks and pancake breakfasts in the morning. Everything went smoothly. Board of Health Member- Committee Liaison Reports Semi-Quincentennial Commission (LEX250): Dr. Tung mentioned things are winding down in the next few months, following Patriots’ Day on th April 18. When asked what her favorite thing was, Dr. Tung stated that all the festivities from last year that launched the broader 250th anniversary celebrations. Crematory Committee: No update. New/ Old Business th Dr. Heiger-Bernays asked the Board members about moving the meeting from May 19 to May th 12 due to some items being time-sensitive, and that Ms. McCartin will follow up on the date change. Adjournment Ms. Wolf-Fordham made a motion to adjourn at 8:21 p.m. Dr. Tung seconded the motion. The motion was approved unanimously.