Board of Selectmen Meeting
Friday, April 30, 2009
Selectmen Present: Chairman Paula Proulx, Vice Chairman Gerry McCarthy, Charlie King and Joan Funk. Selectmen Excused: Gail Ellis
Staff Present: Town Administrator Tony Mincu, Fire Chief/Emergency Operations Manager Richard Fowler, School Administrator Michele Langa, Selectmen’s Secretary Megan Taylor –Fetter taking minutes.
Chairman Proulx called the meeting to order at 3:00PM for updated information and discussion on the Swine Influenza.
Chief Fowler discussed various facts in the ongoing efforts to contain the recent Swine flu outbreak. He summarized the Emergency Operation Plan process for the town including the organizational chart.
- The Chief stated that he is not concerned that this recent outbreak will cause mortalities. The concern is that it may cause infrastructure difficulties if a large number of staff is incapacitated, particularly the Police Department and Fire/Rescue Departments.
- The State is recommending a level of increased readiness
- The latest report is that there have been two unconfirmed probable cases in New Hampshire, and a third potential case.
- Chief Fowler plans to meet with Department Heads next week to review the Emergency Operations Plan and their roles in the plan.
- The Chief met with the Town Administrator and School Administrator Michele Langa . The school department had concerns that four of their teachers returned from Mexico on their spring break; none of whom have exhibited any symptoms. The Chief did not recommend any action unless one of them came down with the flu.
- The Chief, TA, Health Officer held a conference call with the New Hampshire Department of Health on Monday also.
- The Towns Website lists the number for the State Hotline: 1-888-330-6764
- The Fire/Rescue Department and the Police Department have been advised to take precautions when in contact with people if they exhibit symptoms of the flu.
- Farmington is a Point Of Distribution if an emergency is declared.
- The Department was able to purchase several cases of masks at Home Depot.
- If the State moves up to the next level, the Town will set up an Emergency Operations Center and be available during business hours for information.
- The Federal Government is in a level five.
- Michel Langa stated that the schools have sent home several letters to the parents. If a case of the flu by one of the staff or students is confirmed, the schools will be shut down.
- Chief Fowler stated that you cannot get the virus by consuming pork.
Charlie King motioned to declare a level of increased readiness seconded by Joan Funk. All in favor.
At 3:45 PM, Joan Funk motioned to adjourn seconded by Gerry McCarthy. All in favor.
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Paula Proulx Gail Ellis JoanA. Funk
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Gerry McCarthy Charlie King
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