Board presses for public health nurse as state offers TB briefing

Board members reported that state public‑health staff (named in the packet as Denise Lakatos and a supervisor) offered to meet with the Board to explain the Board of Health’s responsibilities for tuberculosis and lead cases and to clarify the role of a public health nurse. Diana Johnson said the state will meet with the Board and that much of the specialized casework is already managed by state‑level teams and clinics.

Members debated whether the town needs a dedicated public health nurse. Several speakers argued that not having a local nurse leaves the town less prepared to manage rising infectious‑disease concerns; one board member estimated a baseline of 16 hours per month might be sufficient for initial case follow‑up and coordination. The board agreed to continue advocating for a part‑time nurse and to prepare budget figures for a future discussion.

Separately, the board declined to hold its own flu clinic this fall and agreed to direct residents to Walgreens for routine vaccinations while remaining open to arranging a broader public‑health clinic if a regional partner can provide additional vaccines (measles, shingles, RSV, COVID). The board asked staff to coordinate with regional partners and report back.