Meetings in Truro are often held remotely. Go to truro-ma.gov and click on the meeting you are interested in for an agenda and details on how to join.
Thursday, July 24
- Ad Hoc Walsh Committee, 12:30 p.m., Town Hall
- Ad Hoc Building Committee, 4 p.m., online
- Beach Advisory Committee, 4 p.m., Public Library
PFAS Contamination
The town has begun supplying bottled water to several households where detectable levels of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) have been found in the water based on testing completed during the winter, according to the Health Agent Emily Beebe’s monthly water report. Testing is continuing for people who are just opening up their houses for the summer, her report says.
Exposure to PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals,” may harm hormones, the immune system, and the reproductive system and increase the risk of cancer, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The state allowable maximum of PFAS in drinking water is 20 parts per trillion.
“Several homes downgradient of the DPW facility had detectable levels of PFAS and one home exceeded the standard,” according to the health agent’s report. “One home downgradient of the transfer station had detectable levels of PFAS.”
The bottled water is only a short-term solution. Long-term and more permanent measures include equipping these homes with filtration systems and a cleanup of the DPW site.
Bottles for PFAS testing are available at Truro Town Hall in the health and conservation dept. office. The tests are done by Barnstable County Water Quality Lab and cost $265. —Lauren Hakimi
