The Scituate Board of Health met on January 5, 2026, to address a critical septic system failure at 151 Glades Road, a property constrained by its 3,746-square-foot lot and flood-plain location. Gregory Morse of Morse Engineering presented an upgrade plan for owner Kathleen Hickeyi, proposing the installation of an innovative Hoot H500 treatment tank. Morse explained that the existing system failed a Title 5 inspection because the leaching pit intercepted the groundwater table. "This was the most feasible location to construct a new septic system," Morse noted, explaining that the advanced technology allows for a 50% reduction in system size. Motion Made by Karen Conley to approve the five reductions, including property line setbacks of 5 feet for the septic tank, pump chamber, and leaching field, and foundation setbacks of 8.4 feet and 7.2 feet. Vote Passed 3-0

Board members expressed urgency regarding the environmental impact of the current failure. "I'm just concerned about what's happening to the environment until this gets fixed," said John Dalotto. Alyson Shea voiced her support for the technical solution given the site's extreme space limitations, stating, "I don't have any further questions, Greg. I think that was a great explanation. It makes total sense to me, too." Health Director Joan noted that the department reviewed the plans and found no alternative options due to the property being surrounded by rights-of-way.

The meeting shifted to a sobering update on the state's public health status during the peak of the flu season. Director Joan warned that Massachusetts has already seen 29 adult deaths and one pediatric death this season. "We are getting hit really hard right now," Joan said, noting that peak season is expected in late January following holiday gatherings. The board encouraged residents to seek vaccinations at local pharmacies or the board’s office. Additionally, the board discussed scheduling a food safety managers course on February 23 and an anti-choking class for restaurant staff, while announcing that the Dana Farber mammography van is scheduled to visit on February 19.

The session concluded with a discussion initiated by the board regarding recent studies linking shingles vaccinations to the delay of Alzheimer’s disease. John Dalotto urged the board to increase public awareness of these findings, suggesting, "If we can do something to get the message out there... I think that would be a good public health service." Chair Karen Conley agreed, emphasizing the importance of community education. "I think that we can definitely tell people about it and to discuss it with their doctors, their primary care physicians," Conley said. Before adjourning, the board also handled routine administrative tasks. Motion Made by John Dalotto to accept the September 8th, 2025 meeting minutes. Vote Passed 3-0 Additionally, Motion Made by John Dalotto to accept the December 1st, 2025 meeting minutes. Vote Passed 3-0

The meeting was adjourned at 6:33 PM