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Meeting Opening and Event Recognition (Link: 00:00:00 – 00:01:00)
Helaine Hazlett, Chair of the Marblehead Board of Health, called the meeting to order on January 27th. She began by congratulating Tom McMahon, a Board Member, for a successful community event held the previous Saturday. McMahon acknowledged the contributions of Andrew Petty, Director of Public Health, and Marty, who assisted in organizing the event. Hazlett expressed regret for missing the event due to being out of town during the holiday weekend but noted that it had a significant turnout of several hundred attendees.
Community Health Update (Link: 00:01:00 – 00:06:00)
Tom McMahon remarked on the success of the event, suggesting that planning should begin for the next year while considering a different date to avoid conflicts with long weekends. He emphasized the importance of community engagement, highlighting how local businesses were able to promote themselves and connect with residents. Andrew Petty confirmed the presence of a public health nurse at the event, who provided blood pressure screenings, and noted the variety of vendors present. The conversation shifted to Petty’s personal experience with acupuncture at the event, where he received several acupuncture pins. He expressed interest in pursuing further sessions, citing the calming effects of the treatment and the historical significance of acupuncture practices.
Financial Updates and Expenditures (Link: 00:06:00 – 00:11:00)
The meeting transitioned to financial matters, with Tom McMahon presenting a list of expenditures. He detailed various expenses, including $440 for rat control, $6,195 for disposal services, and $85,000 for trash collection, among others. Hazlett inquired about a notably low expenditure of $11, prompting discussion about its purpose, which was identified as a purchase for survey string. The Board discussed the Marblehead Counseling Center’s services, which amounted to $4,998.94. Massaro clarified that this funding supports psychological counseling for Marblehead residents, with a sliding scale for fees based on income. Hazlett noted that town employees receive full coverage for these services.
Review of Board of Health Structure (Link: 00:11:00 – 00:15:00)
Helaine Hazlett introduced a discussion regarding the structure of the Board of Health and the Department of Health in Marblehead. She referenced a document prepared by Town Counsel, Alex Castro, which clarified that Marblehead operates with an elected Board of Health rather than a separate health department. The document stated that all employees work under the authority of the Board of Health, emphasizing that there is no legally recognized Department of Health in the town. Hazlett highlighted that Andrew Petty serves as the Director of Public Health under the Board’s authority, and she invited Tom Massaro to present his findings related to the Board’s operations. Massaro noted the importance of addressing the Board’s structure and the need for clarity in roles and responsibilities.
Recommendations for Employee Review and Contract (Link: 00:15:00 – 00:24:00)
Tom Massaro suggested that the Board consider implementing annual performance reviews for its employees, including Andrew Petty. He proposed that the Chair work with Town Counsel to develop a contract for Petty, recommending a five-year term to ensure competitive compensation and potential incentives for exceptional service. Massaro discussed the unique role of the Board of Health and the need for a title that reflects the responsibilities of the position, suggesting alternatives such as “Town Health Administrator” or “Town Health Manager.” The discussion included considerations about the appropriateness of the title “Director” versus “Administrator” or “Manager.” Hazlett expressed her preference for the title “Director,” citing its significance and authority. The Board agreed to further explore the appropriate title and compensation structure for Petty, with plans to consult with Town Counsel and the Town Administrator.
Development of Employment Contract (Link: 00:24:00 – 00:26:00)
The discussion continued regarding the development of a formal employment contract for Andrew Petty, Director of Public Health. Tom Massaro emphasized the importance of ensuring that all necessary steps are taken to avoid missing deadlines related to the town meeting warrant. He indicated that he would contact Town Counsel the following day to ensure that everything is prepared by the deadline of January 30th. Helaine Hazlett noted the need for an executive session to discuss the contract further, suggesting that it could be scheduled before or after a regular meeting to avoid additional costs.
Job Description Review (Link: 00:26:00 – 00:34:00)
The conversation shifted to the review of Andrew Petty’s current job description. Massaro expressed concerns that the existing job description was overly detailed and lengthy. He proposed a more concise version that focuses on four key tasks: managing the health office, operating the transfer station efficiently, representing the board in various meetings, and developing community relationships. Hazlett agreed that the current job description could serve as a useful tool for determining salary but acknowledged that it might need to be streamlined. Massaro suggested that the Board should collaborate to revise the job description, emphasizing that it should reflect the evolving nature of public health roles, especially in light of changes brought about by the pandemic. He noted that the job description should not be overly prescriptive, allowing for executive decision-making. Andrew Petty’s role was discussed in terms of the expectations placed upon him, with Massaro advocating for a job description that reflects the broader responsibilities of the position rather than a checklist of tasks.
Motion to Review Job Description (Link: 00:34:00 – 00:35:00)
Following the discussion, Massaro moved to have the Chair work with Town Counsel to review and modernize Petty’s job description. The motion was seconded, and the Board voted in favor of it. Hazlett noted the importance of ensuring that the job description aligns with current public health needs and allows Petty to fulfill his role effectively.
Title and Naming Considerations (Link: 00:35:00 – 00:43:00)
The Board then turned its attention to the title associated with Petty’s position. Massaro suggested that the title should reflect the comprehensive nature of the role, which encompasses both public health and waste management responsibilities. The discussion included various naming options, with Massaro advocating for “Health Office” as a suitable title that encompasses the various functions of the office. Hazlett pointed out that the legal counsel had referred to Petty as the Director of Public Health, while the town report used different terms such as “health office” and “board of health office.” The Board agreed to further explore the appropriate title and ensure consistency in terminology used in official documents. The conversation focused on clarity regarding the roles and responsibilities within the Board of Health and its staff, with a consensus that the title should adequately reflect the scope of work being performed.
Review of Town Report Structure (Link: 00:43:00 – 00:50:00)
The discussion resumed with a focus on the structure of the town report. Helaine Hazlett, Chair of the Board of Health, acknowledged the need for a fresh look at the report and invited input from Board Member Tom Massaro. Massaro expressed his willingness to draft a revised outline for the report, suggesting that it should be organized in a more coherent manner rather than in alphabetical order, which he noted was a change he had implemented. He emphasized the importance of clearly outlining the Board of Health’s responsibilities, including inspections of beaches and restaurants, and providing strategic projections for future initiatives. Massaro proposed that the report should highlight the Board’s accomplishments and future goals, such as the anticipated success of the upcoming wellness fair. He criticized the current report for lacking detail about significant policies, such as the organic pest management policy, and suggested that it should include more information about the Board’s activities and their implications for public health.
Clarification on Reporting Requirements (Link: 00:50:00 – 00:56:00)
The conversation shifted to the requirements for reporting communicable diseases. Andrew Petty, Director of Public Health, indicated that there are specific guidelines regarding which diseases must be reported, and he offered to consult with Tracy to clarify these requirements. Hazlett noted that the town report serves as an annual report, while the town meeting focuses on fiscal matters, which may lead to confusion regarding the timing of events and their inclusion in the report. Massaro reiterated the importance of ensuring that the report reflects both past activities and future plans, suggesting that the Board could include goals for upcoming initiatives. He emphasized the need for the report to convey a sense of strategic direction for the Board of Health.
Discussion on Board Member Elections (Link: 00:56:00 – 01:00:00)
The Board then discussed the upcoming elections for Board members. Hazlett noted that there would be three positions available, with the highest vote-getter receiving a three-year term, the second-highest a two-year term, and the third-highest a one-year term. There was some confusion regarding the specifics of the election process, prompting a consensus that clarification from Town Counsel would be necessary. Massaro raised the question of whether the Board was interested in learning how other boards of health conduct annual reviews of their staff. He suggested that it might be beneficial to gather insights from the Massachusetts Association of Health Boards. However, there was a general sentiment among the members that such information might not be necessary given the unique context of Marblehead. The meeting continued with discussions on the importance of setting clear goals for the Board and ensuring that the staff, including Andrew Petty, has the support needed to fulfill their responsibilities effectively.
Transfer Station Update (Link: 01:01:00 – 01:16:00)
Andrew Petty, Director of Public Health, provided an update on the transfer station’s compactor replacement project. He reported that work had commenced the previous Monday, despite it being a holiday. Upon removing the chute leading to the compactor, it was discovered that the metal floor and supporting beams had significant rust damage, raising concerns about structural integrity. Petty explained that the compactor team halted work and recommended consulting a structural engineer. The engineer confirmed the need for a complete replacement of the compromised metal floor and beams. Petty indicated that he had already begun coordinating with a metal fabricator in New Hampshire to expedite the replacement process. He requested a motion to increase the contract with Winter Street Architects by $45,100 to cover the structural engineer’s design work. The motion was made and unanimously approved by the Board. Petty noted that he would return to the Board with an estimate for the construction costs once the fabricator had assessed the site. Petty estimated that the total cost for the repairs could reach a maximum of $50,000. He explained that the funding would come from the waste revolving account, which is designated for such projects. Petty also mentioned that the timeline for the repairs would depend on the availability of materials and contractors, with the hope of receiving estimates within a few days. He emphasized the importance of keeping the Board informed and potentially scheduling a meeting to approve the final costs as soon as they were available.
Opioid Settlement Funds Update (Link: 01:16:00 – 01:22:00)
Petty then shifted the focus to the opioid settlement funds, reporting that the town currently has $330,000 from the settlement. He noted that the funds are overseen by an opioid working group, which includes the Town Administrator, Police Chief, Fire Chief, and himself. The group has previously allocated funds for Narcan overdose boxes in municipal buildings and is focused on ensuring that individuals in need receive appropriate treatment. Petty highlighted the disparity in treatment access based on financial means and emphasized the importance of providing high-quality treatment options for those in need. He also mentioned the potential for collaboration with surrounding communities to offer peer support groups for substance abuse and anxiety issues, leveraging additional settlement funds if necessary.
Collaboration with Mental Health Task Force (Link: 01:22:00 – 01:24:00)
The conversation turned to the Marblehead Mental Health Task Force, with a suggestion from Tom Massaro, Board Member, to invite the task force to collaborate on addressing substance abuse issues. Petty agreed that it would be beneficial for the task force to engage with the Board, particularly regarding the ongoing opioid crisis and treatment options. The Board discussed the importance of ensuring that the task force is informed and involved in the planning and implementation of support services. Petty confirmed that he would reach out to the task force to facilitate a meeting, ensuring that all relevant stakeholders are included in the discussion. The meeting continued with plans to address the opioid settlement funds and the potential for future collaboration with the task force.
Budget Season Overview and Minutes Discussion (Link: 01:24:00 – 01:28:00)
The meeting continued with a discussion led by Andrew Petty regarding the current budget season. Petty noted that this year’s budget process was slightly different, as budgets were requested back in September. This early request typically provides clarity on the town’s financial standing and sets the agenda for the upcoming select board meeting.
Charter Committee Insights (Link: 01:28:00 – 01:29:00)
Tom Massaro commented on the recent interviews conducted by the Charter Committee with the Finance Committee. He expressed admiration for the dedicated volunteers who participated, highlighting their knowledge and positive attitudes. Massaro emphasized the importance of such community involvement in local governance.
Board of Health Meeting Schedule (Link: 01:29:00 – 01:30:00)
Helaine Hazlett, Chair of the Board of Health, announced that the next regular meeting is scheduled for February 11th. She mentioned a conflict for the February 24th meeting and proposed the option of meeting virtually or rescheduling to February 18th. The Board discussed the feasibility of a hybrid meeting format, allowing Hazlett to participate remotely while the other members met in person.
Job Description Considerations and Performance Review Framework (Link: 01:30:00 – 01:34:00)
The conversation shifted back to the job description for Andrew Petty, Director of Public Health. A speaker emphasized the importance of creating a job description that balances specificity and generality, ensuring it serves as a useful document for performance reviews. The need for clear criteria for evaluations was highlighted, suggesting that the job description should include measurable goals. The discussion continued with a focus on the performance review process. A speaker noted that reviews should involve setting goals for the upcoming year and soliciting input from Petty on what he believes would be reasonable objectives. The importance of having specific criteria for evaluation was reiterated, ensuring that the Board can provide constructive feedback based on measurable outcomes.
Communication and Public Awareness (Link: 01:34:00 – 01:38:00)
The Board discussed the need for improved communication with the community regarding public health initiatives and services. A speaker pointed out that many residents are unaware of the Board’s activities and contributions, often only hearing negative feedback related to operational issues. The suggestion was made to utilize visual aids, such as photographs, to illustrate the Board’s efforts and challenges, thereby enhancing public understanding.
Waste Management Costs and Public Perception (Link: 01:38:00 – 01:43:00)
The conversation turned to waste management costs, with a speaker noting that the town paid $85,000 for waste collection services in the previous month. The speaker emphasized that this cost translates to approximately $126 per household annually, which they considered a reasonable rate compared to other municipalities. The need for better public awareness regarding the value of these services was reiterated, suggesting that the Board should actively promote the benefits of their waste management program to counteract negative perceptions. The meeting continued with discussions on how to effectively communicate these points to the community.
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