During the Plaistow Planning Board meeting on December 18, 2024, significant concerns were raised regarding environmental safety and water contamination in the community. A board member highlighted the pressing issue of contaminated water sources, emphasizing the presence of a Superfund site near Timberlane Regional School and the historical contamination from an underground storage tank rupture.

The discussion underscored the serious implications of these environmental hazards, including the presence of PFAs, known as "forever chemicals," in the groundwater. These contaminants have raised alarms about potential long-term health effects, such as various cancers. The board member pointed out that many residents rely on public water piped in from Massabesic due to the contamination issues affecting private wells.

The meeting also touched on the ongoing remediation efforts for local sites, including the removal of toxic topsoil and the management of hazardous waste. The board member stressed the importance of oversight in development projects to prevent further environmental degradation, arguing that unrestricted development could exacerbate existing contamination issues.

This meeting served as a critical platform for addressing the community's environmental challenges, highlighting the need for continued vigilance and proactive measures to safeguard public health and water quality in Plaistow. As discussions continue, the board's commitment to environmental oversight will be crucial in shaping the town's future development and ensuring the safety of its water resources.