The presence of local boards of health in towns and cities across the state allows for a more grass roots effort in overseeing the public health in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. While many of the laws and regulations the Board of Health enforces are determined by the State, the Board also has the ability to develop regulations and take actions that they deem are uniquely beneficial to the health of the residents of Holden.
In a town such as Holden, the Board of Health undertakes the responsibility of overseeing many facets of public health. The Health Agent handles the daily issues that arise, including communicable disease reporting, inspections of private septic system installations, food establishment and barn inspections, quarantine of animals with potential rabies infections, trash and recycling collection, and any other issues that concern the public health of Holden residents. The three-member Board meets monthly to discuss any concerns and develop policies or regulations to protect the health and wellness of residents.
Assisting residents and real estate agents with Title 5 regulations is a primary role of the Board of Health Agent. With the large amount of growth the Town of Holden is experiencing, one of the main jobs of the Board of Health is to review and approve private septic system designs. While the availability of sewer to more and more residents has limited the number of septic system repairs, many of the areas experiencing growth in Holden are areas in which sewer will not be available. Waivers continue to be issued to forego Title 5 inspections or repair of failed systems prior to transfer of property in areas that will soon be able to connect to town sewer. For those interested, sewer connection loans are being offered to those areas most recently put online for sewer connection.
Twice yearly hazardous waste collections continue to occur in partnership with Wachusett Earthday and the Board of Health. These events are offered as a means to dispose of hazardous materials, such as paint, chemicals, and electronics in a safe way. For more information regarding hazardous waste collection and for general information about recycling programs, call E-Call at 1-800-800-6881.
The Board of Health strives to coordinate with local, state, and national government and safety officials to provide the best assistance and most up-to-date information possible to Town of Holden residents. Residents with any health-related questions or concerns should contact the Board of Health office.
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