Martha Dansdill: Setting the Record Straight

There have been a series of statements in recent letters to the editor about the Board of Health and I’d like to respond.

First, letter writers have misstated that Swampscott is going to a ‘single’ trash barrel limit. This is not the case. The Swampscott Solid Waste and Recycling regulation, which is available on the Town website, clearly states the policy and nowhere does it make reference to a single barrel.

Secondly, there have been allegations that the Board of Health lacks transparency and holds backroom meetings. To my knowledge, all Boards and official committees in Town adhere to the Open Meeting Law. Our Board of Health meetings are posted, held in public places, minutes are recorded and readily available, and all discussion, deliberation and decision making takes place in these open meetings. The public is always welcome to attend. 

In regards to the new trash policy, we were pleased that so many stakeholders participated in the process. During a year and a half of public meetings, a Selectman liaison was in regular attendance. Also contributing were Hiltz (our trash hauler), a number of residents, vendors, and the regional state solid waste and recycling coordinator. Mr. Maylor provided input and renegotiated the contract with our trash hauler for the greatest fiscal benefit to the town. Several presentations were made to the Selectmen and public comments on the policy were solicited and logged. The press reported frequently on the regulation and its iterations as it evolved.

Lastly, I’d like to address a comment about ‘mosquito infestation’ around Foster Pond. In addition to the mosquito management plan for Swampscott and the greater District (which we are part of) which is drafted and implemented by NE Mosquito Control, each year the Board of Health specifically requests that NE Mosquito Control crews assist in mitigating mosquitoes around Foster Pond. It’s important to note that this area is not overlooked; in fact it is a destination for the ground crews when they are in town.

I hope this answers questions or doubts that readers may have. Please feel free to call the Health Department or attend a future Board of Health meeting if you have concerns.

Martha Dansdill

Swampscott Board of Health, Chair