Who can disinter a body solely when communicable diseases are involved?

The correct answer is the town director of health because this individual has the authority to manage public health matters, especially concerning communicable diseases. In situations where there is a potential risk to public health, such as the discovery of a communicable disease associated with a deceased individual, the town director of health is empowered to act to protect the community's health. This may include the decision to disinter a body to ensure that any health risks are addressed appropriately.

The funeral director, while knowledgeable in handling the deceased, does not have the legal authority to disinter a body solely on grounds of health concerns; their role primarily involves the care and arrangement of funeral services. Similarly, the deceased's family does not have the direct authority to disinter without adequate local government or health department intervention, as it often requires compliance with public health laws. The cemetery sexton manages the cemetery's operational aspects, including burials and maintenance, but does not hold the authority to disinter bodies due to health-related issues, which fall strictly within the purview of health officials.