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Westford staff report on emergency preparedness exercise, inspections and mental health supports
Summary
Staff reported a successful emergency preparedness tabletop exercise and plans to use grant funding to strengthen the town's preparedness plan; department staff also shared positive Massachusetts Department of Public Health survey results, inspection activity (including weekly beach testing at 13 sites), community outreach events and a $500 donation to the Community Behavioral and Mental Health Committee.
During the Old/New Business portion of the June 8 meeting, Health Department staff reported on several ongoing programs and updates.
Rae Dick described a Westford emergency preparedness tabletop exercise involving department heads; staff are reviewing after-action findings and expect to use grant funding to strengthen the community emergency preparedness plan. Staff also shared positive results from a Massachusetts Department of Public Health performance survey and said work is underway on trash and dumpster regulations.
Outreach and events noted in the packet included June 'Ask the Nurse' water safety materials and the fourth annual Pedestrian Bike Rodeo (June 2), held in partnership with the Police Department and supported by grant-funded activities. The FY27 Public Health Excellence Grant Program workplan was provided to the Board.
The Board accepted a $500 donation from former Health Department intern Ally Nudler to support the Community Behavioral and Mental Health Committee, whose charge is under review; the Board said any move to a resident-led committee would be considered by the Select Board. Staff also reported receiving daily FIFA-related public health and safety reports from the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency and provided a regional coalition report packet.
Environmental Health updates included ongoing inspections for pool openings, recreational camp inspections, septic and building permit reviews, funeral director reissues, and weekly beach water testing at 13 sites. Staff announced a free Mental Health Adult First Aid training for Westford residents on June 24 at the Westford Fire Station.
