Milton is set to gain a new public health resource as the Board of Health moves to fund a per diem nurse focused on maternal and family health in its upcoming budget. Health Director Caroline presented a preliminary Fiscal Year 2027 budget of $458,790 during Monday night's meeting, representing a slight increase from the current $454,660 figure. Caroline explained that the increase is primarily driven by contractual steps and lanes for department staff, but the proposal includes a notable shift in how those funds are utilized.

The budget proposal reallocates $8,000 previously designated for professional engineering services into the personnel line to hire a nurse for three to four hours per week. This new role will focus on maternal, child, and family health, including postpartum home visits for Milton residents. We're going to reduce schedule E professional services. So $8,000 that we previously had paid for Paul Brognna's services... and move that to have a per diem nurse, Caroline told the board. The change is possible because homeowners now pay engineering plan review fees directly to the consultant rather than through the town. Chair R. Musto opened the discussion by asking if members had any specific concerns after they had a chance to take a look at the budget. The board deferred a final decision on the budget until the department receives an updated quote for its electronic permitting software, which cost $9,800 last year.

Property maintenance and safety violations at several local sites also drew significant board attention. Regarding the ongoing remediation at 5-9 Thatcher Street, the board heard that the owners have secured a certified plot plan and expect to file a planning board application within three weeks. Board member L. Richards inquired about the physical security of the site, asking if the department had any confirmation regarding fencing and boarding. Caroline confirmed that plywood was installed on windows and stairways and that the site is subject to monthly pest control inspections. He secured the fence. So, it was all boarded up, she noted.

More aggressive enforcement is underway at other locations. At 141 Pleasant Street, health officials recently inspected the property with Neighborhood Renewal representatives and are drafting a new correction order. Caroline suggested the town may move ahead with maybe appointing a receiver or maybe condemning the site if issues persist. Additionally, Town Counsel has assumed control of enforcement for 333 Thatcher Street following continued non-compliance with health orders.

The board also reviewed the town's opioid abatement funds, which include a $335,763 carryover. Member M. Stenson raised concerns about the accessibility of Narcan kits installed in Town Hall, specifically for residents who may face language barriers or high-stress situations. I'm just wondering... if there are any directions like pictorial kind of directions if someone needed it, Stenson said. Staff member Emily clarified that the kits include diagrams showing like the motion of putting the nasal spray in. Stenson also advocated for using a portion of the abatement funds to establish therapeutic support groups specifically for grandparents who are often primary caregivers in families affected by addiction.

The meeting included updates on the town's revolving fund, which currently holds $72,626 to support flu clinics and the sharps disposal program. Staff also highlighted the success of the recent drug takeback event and a food drive that collected emergency supplies for the fire station. Earlier in the session, the board addressed administrative matters with a Motion Made by R. Musto to approve the minutes from October 14th, which resulted in a Motion Passed (3-0-0).