The Marion Board of Health met on April 17 and began with a discussion on mosquito control and Rabies vaccinations. For mosquito control, locals can apply to have their wetland area sprayed; 500 acres in Marion and 50 acres in Rochester are eligible.
The board then spoke on a letter regarding a variance approval and conditions of approval for 80 Delano Road. Chair John B. Howard MD stated “we don’t have to discuss that,” citing other municipal jurisdiction.
There were septic updates from 15 West Avenue. The owner was present to discuss plans to add a bathroom in the space present above the garage and a plan to tie it into the current septic system. The house had been listed on Airbnb as a four-bedroom, though the septic tank is listed as a three-bedroom unit. The fourth room counted as a bedroom was discussed by the board to be below regulation height, being a 6-foot, 4-inch maximum ceiling height rather than the required 7-foot average. The owner stated the proposed bathroom would be used with the gym that is also located above the garage. The bathroom was confirmed by the board with the stipulation that the room be exclusively a lavatory, having just a sink and a toilet.
There will be a farmers’ market at Washburn Park on Tuesdays in May through October, from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm.
For the orally administered and baited Rabies vaccine, there was originally a scheduled drop on May 5. However, the town has been notified there is no helicopter available for the spring distribution this year. The board was still unsure as to what the solution or method of baiting will be used. Hand baiting and distribution was discussed, though manpower is an issue.
The next meeting of the Marion Board of Health is currently scheduled for Thursday, May 1, at 4:30 pm at the Marion Town House.
Marion Board of Health
By Sam Bishop