10/15/1998 BOARD OF HEALTH Minutes

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Board of Health Minutes 2 October 15, 1998 Sampling detected 1,100 parts per billion of TCE in the ground water 2 ft. below the pond bottom. The federal drinking water standard is 5 parts per billion. Board of Health Agent, Elias McQuaid indicated that there are very few homes located in the "hot spot." In an area,just south of line 7, there is a dilapidated and unhabitual dwelling informed Mr. McQuaid who made note of seeing visible heating oil tanks, barrels and debris as a potential source of contamination. Mr. McQuaid stated that he tests John's Pond on a regular basis. To date, there are no traces of VOC contaminants. It was noted that NTBE was detected in the pond. NTBE is a gasoline additive which is found in outboard engines. Mr. Cram opened discussion to solicit comment. Selectman Nancy Caffyn related concerns with respect to the notification process. She strongly suggested that protocol be developed to informed proper regulatory agencies on a timely basis. Mr. Perry responded by stating that the memo of 10/2/98 initiated their action. Mr. Minor added that preliminary information initiated further sampling prior to notifying the Town. He also noted that the Joint Process Action team was informed of the situation last night. Efforts will be made to ensure a more timely response to Mashpee officials informed Mr. Minor. Mashpee resident, A] Orlando asked if something could have been spilled into the pond such as a barrel which could puddle in layers similar to the pattern detected. It was noted that additional drive point sampling will be conducted next month_ Solvents such as paint thinners, septic system degreasers, and dry cleaning chemicals create TCE informed Mr. Perry. Mr. McQuaid requested specific direction from the Department of Public Health about the safety of swimming and fishing in the pond.