Notwithstanding the disqualification of the applicant or permittee pursuant to this chapter, the director of environmental protection or the board of health may issue or renew a permit or license if the applicant or permittee severs the interest of or affiliation with the individual or business concern that would otherwise cause that disqualification or may issue or renew a license on a temporary basis for a period not to exceed six months if the director or the board of health determines that the issuance or renewal of the permit or license is necessitated by the public interest.