Board of Health approves sieve analysis for failed septic system at Mill Valley Road property
Board of Health · Meeting of July 27, 2026
BELCHERTOWN — Board of Health approves alternate septic testing and system design for constrained property. Vice Chair Kenneth Elstein's motion to allow a sieve analysis instead of a percolation test and a two-foot separation reduction at 59 Mill Valley Road, paired with an Eljen trench system, passed unanimously. The Board continued a public hearing on a septic permit appeal at 267 Granby Road to August 24, 2026, after testimony from the applicant's attorney, town counsel, and the Director of Public Health about whether a deed restriction limiting bedrooms to three would satisfy Title V standards or whether a four-bedroom system redesign is required.
The Board voted unanimously to order the owner of 160 North Street to submit a replacement septic design for a minimum of five bedrooms within 90 days following discovery of a failed system and unpermitted repairs; Director Andrea Crete said she will include language in the notice about potential fines under Title V regulations. The Board tabled draft pesticide and herbicide regulations on town property pending consultation with other municipalities' policies and further internal refinement.
In the full story:
- The complete report — 247 words
Source: the Board of Health meeting of July 27, 2026, reported from the official video recording and transcript.
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