Board approves biosafety committee appointments; confirms town’s opt-out of cannabis delivery

The board moved and unanimously approved the reappointment of biosafety-committee members, retaining Ed, Jonathan Portman and Justin, removing Sai (who changed roles) and adding Emily as the public-health division staff member. The motion passed by roll-call vote with all present voting yes; staff will notify the town clerk and send thank-you letters to committee members.

Separately, staff reported that the Select Board asked the town manager to request an opt-out from commercial cannabis delivery with the Cannabis Control Commission because Needham has not approved a retail cannabis location. The CCC has recorded Needham as not allowing delivery; staff said the CCC’s enforcement guidance is to report suspected violations to a provided email address and that the Select Board had asked for more information on enforcement mechanisms.

Other board items included discussion of a Charles River Watershed Association request about combined-sewer overflows and a public inquiry about potential water-quality impacts from a planned 'South Native Dam' removal. Board members asked staff to coordinate with the public-works and conservation departments and to consider spot testing for water-quality indicators if warranted; staff will follow up and report back to the board.

No other formal policy votes were taken at the meeting beyond the biosafety-committee appointments and prior minutes approval.