Board of Health Goals & Priorities

The Great Barrington Board of Health plays a critical role in protecting and promoting the health, safety, and well-being of the community. Each year, the Board reviews its responsibilities, emerging public health issues, and operational needs to establish a set of goals and priorities that guide its work.

This 2026 Goals & Priorities Working Document reflects the Board’s current focus areas for the year ahead. It is intended to be a living document, used to support planning discussions, inform coordination with Town departments and boards, and provide transparency to residents about the Board’s direction and workload.

The priorities outlined address a range of public health functions, including:

• Maintaining high-quality inspectional and environmental health services

• Supporting staff capacity, recruitment, and retention

• Advancing local public health regulations and policies

• Identifying funding and grant opportunities aligned with community needs

• Addressing sustainability, solid waste, and environmental health initiatives

• Continuing education and responsiveness around PFAS and water quality issues

Each priority is identified by relative level (high, medium, or low) and current status (in progress, ongoing, or incomplete), recognizing that timelines may shift as regulatory requirements, staffing conditions, funding opportunities, and community needs evolve.

The Board of Health reviews and updates this document throughout the year as work progresses and new issues arise. Residents are encouraged to follow the Board’s meetings and agendas and to engage in public hearings and discussions related to these priorities.

Click on the image below or here to view the 2026 working document of the Board of Health's Goals and Priorities