The Milton Board of Health has issued a strict remediation order for the long-troubled property at 5-9 Thatcher Street, stopping short of immediate condemnation while demanding the owners address persistent rodent and safety issues. The property has been a source of community complaints since 2020, with Health Director Caroline Confella noting recent reports of overgrown brush, holes in the roof, and significant evidence of pests. Attorney Richard Joyce, representing the owners, told the board that his clients are now investing in the site with plans to demolish the current structures and build seven townhouse units. The owners are now investing time and money in getting this property to where they want it to be, Joyce said, arguing that the site is currently secured and not a public danger.

Board members expressed a preference for active monitoring over the finality of a condemnation order, provided the owners maintain the site. Chair Roxanne Musto stated, I would be more inclined not to condemn but to ensure that all provisions are taken care of in terms of cleaning up the yard a little bit and securing the building. I think that's very important, and the rodent control. Member Mary Stenson agreed with the cautious approach, noting, I think if we can make sure a potential doesn't turn into an actual in any form, it is the right thing to do. Following the discussion, the board set clear requirements for the developer to remain in good standing.

Motion Made by R. Musto to order the owners to secure the building, repair and maintain the fence, hire a professional exterminator for monthly treatments, and provide monthly reports to the Health Director. Motion Passed (3-0). This decision aligns with the board's ongoing efforts to manage derelict properties, similar to the recent investigation into sanitary code violations at 141 Pleasant Street and the referral of 333 Thatcher Street to Town Counsel for non-compliance.

The board also addressed public health concerns regarding Warrant Article 7, a proposed amendment to town bylaws governing alcohol consumption on municipal property. District 7 resident and public health professor Margie Skeer urged the board to demand stricter safeguards to protect local youth. With the bylaws as they are currently written, we have significant concerns that there are not enough safeguards in place around being able for youth to be able to purchase and consume, Skeer said, suggesting that the current plan risks normalizing public drinking for children. Despite these concerns, the board voiced support for the Select Board’s current draft, which includes mandatory wristbands, TIPS training, and designated consumption areas. I think it was well vetted between the Warrant Committee and Select Board, Musto noted. So, I feel comfortable with the way that it's written and the safeguards in place. Secretary Laura Richards also signaled her support for the article as written.

Health Director Confella highlighted several upcoming financial and community opportunities, including the Opioid Abatement Grant program. The town currently has $20,000 in small grants available for community-led initiatives, with applications accepted through November 30. This funding is part of a larger pool of over $380,000 in abatement funds Milton has secured to combat the opioid crisis. Confella also updated the board on the completion of asbestos remediation at 68 Smith Road, the site of the Temple Salem Adventist Church, and announced an upcoming photo gallery and speaking event for International Overdose Awareness Day at the library on October 20.

Regarding seasonal health, Confella reported that townwide flu clinics are scheduled for late October, though she noted that resident uptake has been lower than in previous years. The town received roughly 250 pediatric doses and 140 high-dose vaccines for seniors. Uptake has been lower than in previous years, possibly due to widespread availability at pharmacies, Confella explained. Additionally, the Milton Police Station will host a Drug Takeback Day on October 25 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. to allow residents to safely dispose of expired or unused medications.