In recent news, the Lynn Board of Health discussed the issue of water contamination in the city. Lynn Shore Beach was closed due to high levels of bacteria, and attention was also drawn to the unsafe conditions of Stacey’s Brook, a waterway that contains sewage and stormwater from Lynn and Swampscott.
Lisa Tobin, the Public Health Director, emphasized the importance of access to clean beach water for residents. She highlighted how exposure to contaminated water can cause illness and how this is especially true in communities like Lynn where access to air conditioning may be limited. Despite ongoing efforts to address this issue, Tobin acknowledged that it is not an easy fix.
Some community members have asked the Board of Health to advise against swimming in Stacey’s Brook due to its contaminated waters. Dr. Clark Van Den Berghe, a board member, stressed the importance of heeding beach closure signage and not ignoring warnings. Efforts are being made by the state delegation to address these concerns, especially in communities like Lynn that are already designated as environmental justice communities.
