Amherst Board of Health Meeting Update – March 25, 2026
The Amherst Board of Health met via Zoom on March 25, 2026. Present were Chair Risha Hess, Betsy Brooks, and Jack Jemsek. Premila Nair was absent, leaving one open seat on the board. Public Health Director Kiko Malin and Program Assistant Maheen Ahmed were also in attendance.
At this meeting, the board unanimously approved new regulations banning the sale of synthetically derived kratom (7-OH), synthetic cannabinoids, and other unregulated intoxicants. Violators could face fines of $300 and potential loss of tobacco licenses. These regulations will take effect on April 15, 2026, and license holders will be notified via email.
Kratom comes from the leaves of a Southeast Asian tree and is known for its stimulant effects at low doses and sedative effects at high doses. However, synthetic versions can be much more potent and pose serious health risks, including addiction and overdose.
7-OH products are particularly concerning, as they are reported to be up to 13 times stronger than morphine and are linked to increasing cases of addiction.
Historically, towns like Northampton have already moved to ban synthetic kratom, highlighting a growing trend of local governments addressing substance use in their communities.
During the meeting, members expressed their concerns about kratom’s health effects but decided to allow natural kratom to be sold in adult-only stores for now. Future regulations for natural kratom may be considered later.
Health Director’s Report
- Waste Hauler Update: Since May 2022, the board has pushed for a new waste hauler bylaw aimed at reducing waste and costs while implementing curbside composting. The proposal, stalled since 2021, finally has a consultant on board, and a draft for implementation is expected by June 30, 2026.
- SAPH 2.0 Legislation: The State Action for Public Health Excellence legislation aims to enhance public health in Massachusetts. A recent survey will evaluate the current capacity of local health boards, emphasizing the need for regional collaboration. This legislation follows previous efforts established in 2016 to address local public health challenges, observed during the COVID-19 crisis. Communities have benefited from the Public Health Excellence Grant Program, which has awarded over $26 million to improve regional public health initiatives.
- Lyme Disease Tracking: Amherst recorded 99 cases of Lyme disease in 2025, significantly higher than nearby areas. Health Director Malin noted that this may reflect greater awareness and vigilance among residents rather than sheer prevalence. With over 81 miles of nature trails in town, being proactive about ticks this season is crucial.
- Alpha-gal Advisory: The Mass Department of Public Health issued a warning about Alpha-gal syndrome, which is linked to tick bites. Although rare in Massachusetts, cases have emerged, warranting attention from local health officials.
- Mosquito Control: The town maintains contracts to monitor mosquito-borne diseases like West Nile Virus. More information can be accessed on the [Health Department’s website](https://www.amherstma.gov/3319/Mosquitoes).
- NARCAN Access: Plans are underway to establish a NARCAN (an opioid overdose reversal drug) access point near Masuda’s Café to combat rising overdose rates, indicating a proactive approach to substance abuse issues in the community.
- Board Vacancy: The board is currently interviewing candidates to fill the open seat, hoping to make an appointment by May.
- Senior Services Update: Malin is temporarily handling the Director of Senior Services role following the resignation of Lisa Borchetta.
The next Amherst Board of Health meeting will take place on April 15, 2026, over Zoom.
