Yes, >> good afternoon. I'm now going to call the Wednesday, July 9th meeting of the Northolk County Commission to order. I'm going to read the executive order on remote participation. On March 28th, 2025,
Governor Healey signed into law House Bill 63, an act relative to certain provisions of the COVID 19 measures adopted during a state of emergency. which includes a two-year extend extension of the option for
public bodies to hold remote meetings by suspending certain provisions of the open meeting law mass general law chapters 30A sections 18 to 25. That action was effective immediately extending the current option for remote
meetings through June 30th 2027. Going to ask everyone to stand and join me in saluting the flag. To the flag, United States of America and to the republic for which it stands,
one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice. >> Thank you very much. Welcome everyone. Every week they moved it this morning. What? >> Roll call. Roll call of attendance.
Commissioner >> D. >> Yes, sir. I am here. Sorry. Thank you. Present. Commissioner Collins. >> Yes. >> And Chairman Shay is here. We have a What did I do here, Mr.
Taken? Okay. Number three, executive session. No executive session today. Number four, minutes that are in your pack. First one of the open session meeting of June 11th, 2025. >> I have reviewed. They seem in order. Mr.
Chairman, be pleased to make a motion to approve. >> Second. >> Motion made and seconded. All in favor? I of open session meeting of June 18th, 2025. >> I have reviewed the seem in order. I'll move a motion to approve. >> Second >> motion to approve June 18th. Me uh all
in favor. >> It is a vote. Open session meeting of June 27th. >> Yes, these have been reviewed. They seem in order. I move approval presented. >> Motion made and seconded. All in favor is executive session meeting of June
27th, 2025. >> I move approval of the meeting minutes of June 27th. Subject not to be released until such matter has been resolved or at discretion of the chair. >> Second. >> Motion made and seconded. All in favor. >> Number five, appointments. We do have one appointment. We're going to go right
to it. We're kind of excited today because January July 1st is the beginning of our new year and it's also the beginning of a tenure of our new superintendent director at uh you know folky
uh I don't have to tell my fellow commissioners uh after this last goound um the appointing committee was large. It was thorough. It was exhaustive.
I think the Watergate committee had more meetings, one more meeting than a appointment committee. But what has happened here is that it is borne fruit and I think it was helpful to everyone. So, we're going to have uh our new
superintendent Jeremy Gray come up and join us. Just a just a hello and how do you do session in your first week. So, Hello, Jeremy. Hello, sir. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. You >> still after a week, it's still staying.
>> Uh, it hasn't been a full week. Well, true. Keep it >> time, right? A lot can happen. >> It's uh it's been an exciting uh few days at the Aggie, and I can say that the uh the welcome that I've received so far has been uh welcoming. It's been warm. It's been genuine. And uh I think
there's a sense of excitement not just from me, but from the staff as well. uh we've hit the ground running on a multitude of different things that are coming through in vocational and agricultural education specifically the lottery uh for admissions and uh so the work is uh begun it's ongoing and uh
it's very exciting and thank you all for the opportunity I'm very humbled and very honored it's it's a wonderful school >> um did you say what were you say what did you say about emissions we're still fighting that fight or >> uh the new regulations were voted in uh by the
general court >> by the yeah by the board of education. So uh we are revamping our admissions policy to meet the new regulations >> and we're going to comply with it. >> Yep. We're going to be in regulation compliance and uh it's our hope that the uh it'll be on the board's agenda uh the
commission the board of trustes agenda and >> Oh okay. >> Yes. You'll have the information well ahead of time to peruse and ask questions and we'll do a presentation at the first meeting in September. So let's on that subject I've been following this like we all have pretty closely.
>> My understanding in talking to some state rep was that they had tabled the matter when the budget hearing was taking place and they wanted to be under further study >> but yet DOE went ahead and voted to implement the regulations. So what happens on that? It's like a conflict
between the you know a board administrative board and you got the state reps. Is that we have to move forward? >> Yes. There was uh I believe it was Senator Moran or Representative Moran who had put an amendment in to table the uh proposed lottery system and and develop a uh heavy group,
>> right? >> Uh that uh amendment was removed prior to the vote at the legislature. So we are bound by the uh the board's vote to begin work on a lottery policy. >> Okay. >> So we are uh will be in compliance. Um
there are some specific things that uh pertain to uh agricultural schools, county schools or you know basically two in the state really. So uh we're working with Bristol County as a you know we're working with them so we're all kind of on the same page. >> Okay.
And I just happened to catch today just this morning checking our mail. Uh it came out of one of our law firms that sometimes helps us out. They're having a seminar or something tomorrow or this week on the new regulation concerning calming methods and the timeout. Yes. >> So, I don't know if you're aware of
that, but that might be an interesting thing to catch, but I don't know if you not trying to put you in the spot. These like there's always something going on. You always but there's something that that's coming down in terms of new regulation that DOE is promagating on that. >> So, give a heads up. >> Absolutely. And it's it's something that
we're all involved with and uh we work with specifically like with admissions. It's not just uh we're working we're not working you know silo we're working with mava the mass association of vocational administrators we're working with the vocational schools and we're working with you know teachers and staff and and
parents at the school too. So, uh, you know, on not just admissions, but everything. >> No, it's good. >> It's a truly collaborative effort, >> right? >> Well, well, anything you need from us, obviously. >> I knew it was coming. >> Oh, yeah.
>> Deal with >> Yeah, we'll deal with that. That's, you know, >> if you read it though, what John had said, your predecessor, we were pretty close to doing almost what they wanted there. wasn't totally blind admission, but we we have a we have a very good policy in place.
>> It was a very fair and very liberal policy. It works well and has worked well for the school and I would just like to say if I may on behalf of, you know, Superintendent Martin, uh he's been working with me since uh since my appointment and he's been a wonderful partner on a smooth transition and uh
his council's been great. So, I'm very appreciative of John. >> Great to know. Good to know. Any other questions or comments for Jeremy? >> Welcome. >> Thank you, sir. >> Yeah. >> Meetings August 18th or 15th? >> Uh I'm not sure about that yet, but uh
it'll be on the first regular agenda in September. >> Okay. >> Maybe we won't have a meeting in August for a special meeting uh concerning some other things. That's August 7th. There's a special meeting of the board, but this item will be a regular September
schedule, right? >> Yep. >> That's my understanding. What's the special meeting for? >> Uh, possible contracts. >> Oh, okay. You want to >> We'll keep that separate. Okay. I don't want to talk about stuff today. This is a meet and greet, right? I don't want to deliberate in any way, shape, or form. There'll be plenty of time. Get into the
weeds. >> Um, how many years were you at your other job? >> Uh, this is my fourth and last school. I can I can promise you that. Uh, so I spent my first uh I was a student at a regional vocational school. My background I was auto body. That was
what I took as a as a trade >> and uh I went back to the same school that I >> was a student at and I taught collision repair for 14 years >> and then I became an administrator there sort of an assistant principal at that school. Did that job there for eight years. So I was there for 22 years
total. Um, I left there looking to move up and I went and did a very short stay at Dyon Rahobath uh regional school district and then I landed at Attboro because they were building a brand new school and they needed somebody to come in who can develop and start an open new
vocational program and I did just under six years there uh before landing here at the end. So it's uh this October 2nd will be my 30th anniversary for being hired in education. like 30 years ago.
That's great. I know. I don't look it. It's >> all relative. >> Good. >> Okay, last call. Any other comments? We do have a couple of items on the school on the agenda, but they're very light.
You notice how all of personnel come through and you sign and then we sign and you know we actually physically look at all of this stuff. >> Warrants. >> John brings all the warrants up and whatever whenever we need and then kind of stands in which is kind of been
tradition. I mean you're welcome to come to our meetings there every week but I don't think it's necessary. >> I appreciate that. >> Other people did it in other ways but you know um >> it's not that far of a drive. No call on the business manager because the
previous business manager that John was very active in coming to the meetings and Tammy came too and John came too. So we don't have John to push around anymore. Is he going to Brock Island?
>> He's been going there off and on. >> Really? It's amazing. He just explained it to me. What a good deal. >> Interesting, huh? Yeah, it's interesting how they do it. >> I mean, I I thought like he was intro or something. He said no.
It's a part-time job. >> Lovely place. >> Nice place. >> Good for him. Oh, good. Good to hear. He's working now. Is he still working with you or is he all done? I still >> through the month of July, right? I think he'll help you off and on. Yes, I mean he's got a balance. >> He's got a balance both. But yeah, he's
been very helpful. >> So really August 1st you'll be kind of on your own or less. No more no more training wheels. >> There you go. There you go. They come off. >> Yes, sir. >> Right. And we have a a room that's being outfitted. I think it's >> Hope hopefully get over there. >> I was there yesterday.
>> Yeah. Hopefully get over there myself. Good. >> It's coming out really good. >> Yeah. Good. >> His people did Pete and them did a great job. >> Beautiful. Good. Pete's great. >> So if if we if we're under threat, the whole county could move to that room. >> There you go. That's the idea. >> We never used the Oh, we never but we needed we needed the space. So
>> yeah, >> and this that's the same for you folks, which we'll talk about at another day. I mean, if you get in a jam, you can, you know, you can run your office right out of there. >> But, uh, we'll get into that this fall and we'll have a little ribbon cutting on the
night that you report comes. We could have our we could have our commissioners meeting and go right over. >> I like that. >> That week and like in in OPO and then >> we like to move every now and then. We have seldom do it, but we usually get to Quinzy once or twice a year. And then
>> we talk about going to Brooklyn, but we never do. And uh might be a good time to branch out. That's >> You're always welcome to camp if you want to go there, but we can move around. It'd be fun. >> Okay.
>> It's good to see you. Good to see you, we're here. We'll talk to you later. >> All right. Take care. >> Thank you. >> Thank you, John. Okay. Number six, public comment. Every week in our
meeting, we have public comment from anyone in the public sector that wants to come in and say hello or is the out in Zoom land and wants to come in and say hello. So, now is the time. If there's anyone out
in Zoom that would like to public comment, now is the time for the comment. John, have you had anyone ask or inquire? >> No, sir. >> Nobody this week? >> Nope. >> Okay. Last call for public comment. Seeing no public comment, we'll go to
number seven. All business. We have none. Number eight, personnel matters for consideration. Commissioner Stady. Yes, Mr. Chairman. Yes, sir. Uh, pleased to move the following. At the North County Agricultural High School, we have two
notice of contingent employment. The first, I'll move approval for Jillian Senate as student worker at the rate stated effective date 71025. So move >> second. Motion made and seconded. All in favor? >> I. >> It is a vote. Next. >> In a second, Mr. Chairman, I move approval and it was contingent
employment from M Wilds of Student Labor Garden. I should say that was like camp but student work guard right stated effective date 71025 so moved >> second motion made and seconded all in favor the vote
>> that is all we have >> number nine payroll and expense warrants for approval >> all right Mr. Chairman, please to do it. We have quite a long list here. Let's start with payroll and move approval for the warrant list of 7925 payroll of the county 26-01. The sum $150,82.79.
So moved. >> Second. >> Motion made and seconded. All in favor? >> I. >> It is a vote. Next. >> Second item 26-01 uh parentheses 1 payroll of the school. Move the approval of $96,175.35. So moved.
>> Second. Motion made and seconded. All in favor? I vote. >> Third, payroll of the school. Another item 26-01 partheses 1.1. This sum 254,47522. So move.
>> Second. Motion made and seconded. All in favor? I. It is a vote. >> Next item, payroll of the county. Item 25-52. Move approval of $182,54.79. So moved. >> Second. >> Motion made and seconded. All in favor?
I. >> It is a vote. >> Next item for the Wallace Recreational Facility uh item 7-125 credit card payment move approval of $58,949. So moved. >> Second.
>> Motion made and seconded. All in favor? It is a vote. >> And the last two are expense items for the county. First 710 700126 new approval for the county expense the sum 557,000 $14753
so moved >> second >> motion made and seconded all in favor I moved >> final item Mr. Chairman uh 07-0226 expense of the county 3,258,341 92 cents. So moved. >> Second.
>> Motion made and seconded. All in favor? I. It is a vote. >> That concludes the warrant. >> Payroll expense watch. Thank you. Number 10. I'll put transfers for approval. Director Cronin. >> Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I have two transfer requests today uh for your
consideration. Um the first is for the city of Quinsey. Um Quinsey is requesting a transfer of $12,924.35. They've developed a surplus from their original ARPA request of $2.3 million for MUN support uh I'm sorry,
infrastructure um improvements. and they would request to transfer this now to application ARPA 1323 um which is also I believe an infrastructure project. So they're looking to optimize the total amount of
the ward by moving 12,924.35 from ARPA 1017 to ARPA 1323 >> and all this is under our closing procedures. >> That's correct. >> The way it's done. Okay, great. So seek an approval on that item. >> What's it going to again?
>> So this is all within the city of Quinsey. They're moving it from ARPA 1017 to ARPA 1323. The total sum is 12,924.35. >> 924.35. >> That's right. >> Okay. I'll move that approval request from the city of Quinsey for opera funds
in the amount of $12,934 and 35 >> $924.35 $24.35 for Quincy for the reason stated within the categories as presented by a director. >> Second
>> on the Quinsey opera transfer made motion made and seconded. All in favor? I >> it is a vote. Thank you. >> The second transfer is for the town of Franklin. Uh Franklin was originally granted um a sum of money of 1.5
I'm sorry $88,125 for an infrastructure I'm sorry second one thanks right so the original application ARPA 1235 was a mental health uh clinician program you may remember this is one of the two in Northfor county that were
kind of unique and um Franklin has done wonderful work with this, but they've developed an $86,000 surplus which they would like to move to um upper count 1045 and that was a storm water improvement
and infrastructure project um that uh they were approved of back in 2022. So they're moving a total of $86,000 from ARPA 1235 to ARPA 1045.
>> That is my request. >> Okay, Mr. Chair, if you want >> move for the uh town of Franklin a request for the transfer of opera funds in the amount of $86,000 from OPA fund 1235 to oper 1045 to
assist more management as directed as prepared uh by our director. >> Second. >> Motion made and seconded. All in favor? >> I you'll see these items come up likely in next week's warm vote after your vote. That is all I have
on the ARPA transfer for approval. I thank Mr. Chair. >> Okay. Excellent. Number 11, request for civic charity rate at the Quincy Golf Course for two two functions. The first one is the Mark
A Sushi Susi Susi Susi scholarship fund. >> Right. This was an annual event that >> it's an annual event. It's >> we hear about it frequently and they seem to do something. >> 33rd annual event, >> right? They do. >> I know. I remember that Mark Susi was a
young man at one of our high schools. It could have been melted, but I think it was a private school. He was gone to hockey practice and he on the way home. He lost his life. I don't know. He was hit by a car or he was in a car. But the Sushi family very prominent, very active,
very large contracting company. But this is a big turn and it's 33 years old at least. very happy to approve approval of their efforts. So I move that we grant um to the Makushi scholarship uh fund committee golf golf fund golf tournament
committee uh the waiver they requested for July 19, 2025. >> Okay, second one. >> Wait a second. >> Motion made and seconded. All in favor
number two charity. from my friend and colleague Scott Campbell. Dear commissioners, on behalf of the Northw Quinsey Quinsey High School annual football group, we're writing today to ask for your support and organization as we are organizing
our 12th year for our charity golf tournament. We've grown this tournament as a camp of Duke. We are writing today to request that our group receive the civic rate and all of the money is used for Quinsey students to uh get scholarships to
college administered by a committee chaired by councelor Scott Cample. This is also a not a longtime tournament but a growing tournament. um Quinzy North notices always have separate teams and
everything. This year the Quinzy next year there's only going to be one hockey team. >> Oh. >> So this gathering this is a getting together is I think the trend >> on a lot of things. this as a fundraiser, but this used to be only
Quinsey High and then they joined with they allowed North to come in. And >> so the fundraiser, Mr. Chairman, is it's for both football teams, right? Don't they have two football teams? >> Both football team, >> North and regular they get at Christmas or they walk right around. >> They they
review everyone that's going to college and they give some of them. They split up with a >> g. They're a 403C corporation. >> I don't recall this request. The shoes are new >> in the past. I didn't either. There's a chance >> new. Yeah, >> I mean >> there's a chance this was at Furnace
Brook, but >> it's not anymore. >> Okay. Well, >> because you can make more money with us because get more forces. >> Well, there you go. >> I'm going to go out on a limb and say that this was at furnish group for the first few years. >> Is Scott uh the chair of the group here?
>> I didn't know that. Yeah, I don't recall it. >> Here's a here's something in the winter, too. >> Yeah. Good. So, I'll be happy to move approval if you want. >> Yes. for the uh what's the group it's called the North Quinsey Quinsey High Alumni Football Group to get the charity
rate for their golf tournament uh to be held at President's Golf Course on August 8th, 2025 uh pursuant to their letter and their description of the event. Second >> motion made second. I have a comment I
spoke too soon. I talked about money going scholarships because that's generally what it does. >> But this explanation >> given over 100,000 back to both the Quinsey >> Yeah. >> Quincy high football and North Quincy. This extra funding has been vital for
football programs for each school. We are proud to welcome new members every year. Okay. >> They put it right back into the program. >> The program. Yeah. >> I did notice new uniforms, etc., etc. probably offset what they don't get from the city. >> Correct. We don't we don't charge an athletic fee either.
>> So, >> all right. My motion was made. That's fine. >> Yep. >> Motion made and seconded. All in favor? >> I >> Okay. Go. >> Number 12, report from the procurement department on bid openings and contract
awards. We have none this today. Okay. Number 13, fiscal year 25 reserve list for approval. Going to have director corner just explain it. It's good to understand this being it's the beginning of the Well, it's just kind of okay.
It's right. It's in your packet, >> right? >> And what's up? >> It's interesting. John, why don't you give us a >> Sure. Thank you, Commissioner. It's on behalf of the procurement unit. um our CPO Morin McHugh and fiscal specialist
Alex Alec Lino. Um the work has been completed that is before you to request a total of 749,97 $797.99 be reserved. Um, as you know, when the county closes its fiscal year, it reaches out to its department heads
asking for any relevant um, accounts that may need funds from that fiscal year reserved into fiscal year 26 to make payment on obligations. Um, the exercise involved a fair amount of dialogue with the department heads. The deadline was June 25th. Over the last
week, our procurement unit has gone through each line item to secure and validate these requests. Um, so before you was a detailed list. We won't go through it today, but as in the past, we do request your approval for the treasurer to reserve a total of $749,797.99.
This is a combination of both operating line item reserves as well as capital line item reserves. All thank you, Mr. Chairman. Okay. So, this is bills that don't get processed in time or
they're always a month behind any. >> Well, it's it's more than bills that don't get processed in time. This is uh the obligations have been out there. We have the funding. We just need time to make payments and hold these until uh all of these have purchase orders or obligations.
>> Any questions, commissioners? >> Quick one if I could. Go ahead. Chairman, so I understand the process and town sometimes they call it like encumbering money or they have a different name for it, but same idea. These are bills, these are obligations we have to put it aside. >> Correct. >> How accounting wise though, how does
that when we do our trial balance, how does that show up on the trial balance? >> No. >> Is that that gone? >> No, what'll happen is effectively these funds will mostly be expended by the end of August. >> Okay. >> Um, anything that's not expended from this batch reverts and become surplus which will be declared surplus by the
treasur's office. Okay. So, uh but as we close and we are closing, treasur's office will officially close tomorrow. Uh the activity is we have a large sum of money that um needs obligation protection. That's what this reserve does. And then we have some other funds,
usually salary lines that are not reserved. Those become part of our official surplus which we'll announce within the next couple of weeks. >> That's what I ask you. That's the next question. All right. One more please if I could, Mr. Chairman. Through you of course to John. So,
do we build in a little extra in case there's a late bill or is this a >> No, we have a separate we have a separate line item in our annual budget for uh unpaid bills from prior fiscal years. >> Okay. >> So, it goes against that line item. >> Okay, good. Okay, that was all I had.
>> Thank you. >> Anything else? Anyone have a question? >> Thank you, Mr. Chairman. >> Okay, it's a motion to accept. Correct. >> Uh motion to approve. >> Approve. Okay. >> So, we've approved, Mr. Chairman uh that we uh put in the reserve fund or we
>> reserve reserve total of >> some 749,797.99 [Music] as described as containing both operating capital total as presented to us this day. >> Second motion made second. All in favor?
>> I. >> It is approved. >> Marin, we're all set. You had nothing for us today, correct? >> Yeah, she left. >> Good. >> She's just checking in. >> Okay. Number 14. RSVP program. Federal advocacy.
No, >> advocacy. >> Advocacy. There we go. I give you pass. Oh, no. I Hey, Lucille, please. Hello. >> Come on in, Lucille. Good to see you. >> Nice to see you. >> Thank you. >> How's things at RSVP went?
>> Yes. Well, thank you very much, commissioners, for the time. Uh, we have some good news, lots of good news, and a challenge. So, I'd like to share the good news first, if I could. Um, we have a lot happening. Since February, we've
added two new stations for volunteers, an adult day in Weimoth and at the Franklin United Methodist Church. Uh we've reactivated QCAP and interfaith social services in Quinzy. We just had a successful school year, end of school
year lunchon and meeting. 90% of the classroom volunteers report they're very satisfied or satisfied with their roles. We're now actively recruiting for September. So if anybody out there in Zoom land would like to volunteer for elementary schools, please give us a
call. We're planning our annual volunteer lunchon Thursday, August 14th at the Four Point Sheridan in Norwood from 11 to 1. We have 70 RSVPs so far. Very high energy from folks calling in. They're
excited to come. We're currently doing a video uh to capture a lot of the work and positive feedback from volunteers and the partner stations. And I want to thank the community uh very much for
their generosity. We have about $800 uh in gift cards and giveaways um for the uh volunteers uh to partake in uh at the lunchon. So as you might know, we have about 200 volunteers on
our roster. 175 to 180 are very active, may have one or more volunteer roles. uh the rides for vets program um very busy. We have 41 drivers. We since January we've completed 562 rides.
That's about 80 rides a month. And from last year at this time that's an 11% increase in requests. So we're very very busy with rides for vets. The summertime's always challenging because people are on vacation but we're doing the best we
can. uh and other Meals on Wheels and um other nonprofits are reporting the same type of uh strain because of the vacations uh that they have limited drivers. We've appeared on three cable shows. Uh
Quinsey, the chairman, uh Sheay has done the Quinsey cable and Commissioner Stat has done the Canton and Stoton to get the word out about uh needed uh drivers and opportunities that we have available. And we've upgraded our social
media and have a few more followers, but we always will welcome more. So, those are all the that's all the good news fit to print uh for RSVP. Uh, and I I don't want to I hesitate to call it bad news, but it's definitely a
challenge uh which is our funding from the federal source, the Americanore seniors program, which as you know, we've been sending some updates to you by email. uh back in April there was a a
large cut to that program. Uh they laid off about 85% of their staff including our portfolio manager. So we have sort of lost that personal contact with Americanore, but we're still uh communicating through a regular uh email
box to whoever's on staff that day. So we're in a watch and wait status. I I would say uh we're we're not we're funded through April of 2026 and we've been able to draw down funds
to keep the operation going. Um and also, you know, we're looking at ways to think about contingency plans if things should happen abruptly, which as you know with this administration, they often do
happen abruptly. Uh so we're we're being uh pessimistic but also knowing that we want to keep the program running. I think we have your support as you mentioned in the past about >> making sure that the program continues
because it provides such a vital service. Um we'll certainly keep you informed of any announcement that comes down from Americanore. Um, some of my colleagues uh and peers have had their funding frozen. I'm
hoping that's not going to happen for us, but so far it hasn't, but I I think we should be prepared that that it might happen at any point. So, as you can see from the overview I've given this this morning, uh particularly the rides for
vets program remains a vital service and of course has increased in need. Uh many of the drive many of the riders I talked to, you know, had to cancel their appointments if we couldn't provide a driver because they have no other way to get there. The Uber is very expensive as
well as a taxi service. And you know, we've talked about maybe using some of the funding for vouchers to replace, >> you know, some of that need. Um so there's different creative ways that we're thinking about to make sure that people are getting to and from their
medical appointments. And also we have 30 partner sites that we work with and we fill vital volunteer roles for them. Uh food pantries, the schools and the list goes on as you know. Uh Voices for Volunteer Service which is an advocacy
group that works uh on behalf of Americanore has just released a robust advocacy campaign about keeping Americanore intact. So we'll see. and we have no word whether or not um there was any mention of
Americanore in this last bill that was signed recently. So, we're keeping our ears to the grindstone as they say and uh I'm checking in with my colleagues regularly. We we meet uh once a month uh by Zoom and we exchange ideas and ways
to keep programs running without certain funding. So that's where we stand and I I welcome any questions or comments you may have. >> Director Co, >> just to compliment what Lucille's um remarks informed you on, we have
previously sent an advoc advocacy uh letter to elected officials. Um Mr. Puckley has a copy of that letter. Um, if you're inclined, we can certainly update that letter and pass it along to our uh, congressional uh, representatives so they're aware of your strong interest in maintaining the
program as Lucille brought in. I think that's the most actionable piece that we can do now beyond monitoring and and clearly planning for any potential outcome. So, if you're inclined to support that type of letter, we can certainly draft it and have it before you as soon as possible for endorsement.
>> I think it's a great idea. I would I support it, >> too. This program is over 50 years old. Started started, believe it or not, under Richard Nixon under another title. >> He started getting money out to the cities,
the old CEDA program and all that >> and very similar uh city stuff, good stuff. We got involved in 200 people remember this, 2002. We we started here
>> long before that. >> Really? >> Even further back. >> Okay. Yeah, that's good. And uh we're not when it's we're not in the driver's seat, but
>> I uh I guess you need to follow the money and I don't know where I don't propose to know uh the way this which department handles this money and how they're doing because you know right now depending on who you
talk to. >> Yeah. >> Mhm. >> I think if they can abolish the Department of Education, if they can, it's probably a legal matter. Uh change whether my children can
be vaccinated or not. I suppose they can take money away from program like this, but we hate to see it. We work we work within it and it's worked well. So, keep our fingers crossed, >> right? And there there's all kinds of
great statistics uh from these advocacy groups about how much money it saves the taxpayer to have volunteers in roles when the the nonprofit or the municipality would have to pay that person, you know, otherwise. and and
it's uh it's unfortunate, but hopefully uh we can come up with a creative way to um make sure we take care of the the volunteers that we have who are very excited about going to work every day and their role and and um the veterans
that we need to help out. Well, unfortunately for me, I'm in a program three days a week, as you all know, at 5 in the morning and the the drove of people on my shift. I I'm able to get there myself or my wife takes me.
>> But if it isn't a ride program, it's private carriers, sometimes rooster ambulance. >> Yeah. >> And then people like volunteers like our program. So, >> Exactly. very very uh heartening but uh
you know even the ride is a part of the MVTA now it's not so right >> might be free to the customers although I don't know that but there's >> there's a I think it's a nominal fee but the problem is with the ride is you have to do the whole route >> you have to >> so if you right
>> if you are a patient and you're having a procedure it's it's difficult for >> it's not catered to you >> right and this is a direct side uh with a volunteer who is we have a lot of veterans who drive and it's nice for the
veteran to have that. It's it's also almost like a friendly visit as well. We do friendly visits as part of our program, but >> you know they we have they have a nice connection because they're both Marines or they're you know they've been in the service together and they trade stories.
So, it's also keeps the senior active mentally as well as getting them to their important employment. >> Okay. Well, we'll keep our fingers crossed, but >> if I could uh >> we're set for this year. Yes. Yes. Commissioner,
>> what what amount of money roughly are we looking at that have saved program? I know we're set through like this year 25 to 26. Yeah. >> Let's say, God forbid the program's cut. What are we looking at? How much are we losing? >> It's a good question. So,
>> do we know? >> Uh, yeah. >> About 80,000. >> 80 grand a year. Yeah. >> Okay. And um >> Mhm. So, the big question for for us is do we apply in September? So, we at some
point they have to let us know because September 30th is the deadline to apply for the next three years. So, if they're going to abolish the program, we have to know whether or not, you know, we're supposed to apply. So, I'm I'm
anticipating we're going to hear something in August. >> But, you know, you just never know. >> So, I would encourage you anyway to go forward if that's appropriate. But, >> I think too more than ever, we want to get those letters to our Congress people delegation anyway we can.
>> I mean, they're doing the best they can. It's a numbers game and >> yeah, >> we all know what's happening there. It's a >> right >> difficult thing. >> One last question. >> Sure. >> RSVP >> is looking at and does run it retired senior volunteer program.
>> We got a superintendent here right back there. And I know being a form educator myself that a lot of times students when they're seniors have to complete a certain amount of community service and community action. And I'm thinking if we had cuts, thinking outside the box, is
there some way we could get perhaps responsible seniors. That's a high school maybe to help our seniors >> who have small rides, things like that. Just something to think about. We could have a discussion, but just to plant a seed, you know, I know that they do all sorts of things, great programs, and I
know the Aggie school does it like all other schools. the seniors have to do certain like community action. But just something to think about is a is a county program that could you help their need do a great job and maybe there's something to think maybe in terms of moving forward maybe our seniors or
something could look at that as well. Just for thought. >> Yeah. You know >> I mean traditionally our program is uh 55 plus. >> Yeah. >> But that was sort of the parameters set by Americanore seniors. So, as John and I have talked about sort of informally,
>> without certain >> uh strings attached, so to speak, you you might be able to reconfigure >> Yeah. >> the program in a different way. >> American court funds us. That's fine. We lose that funding. I'm looking I wish I would look ahead. That's my problem. I look sometimes too far ahead, but I mean
looking down the road, >> maybe we may have to look at other ways we can keep it going, both financially, but also with people we have in the county to help us out. Definitely. We're open to any any kind of discussion like that. >> I'll keep plugging.
>> We'll see you in August for sure. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Thank you very much for your support. Appreciate it. >> Thank you. >> Okay. Anything else for Lucille? >> Right. >> All right. >> Thank you, gentlemen. Hi, >> director. >> Good to see you. How you doing?
>> Thanks, Lucille. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Number 15, report of the county director. Director Corona. >> Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Just a few items. Um to the staff this morning rather I confirmed with uh incoming advisory
board chair Beckman that the advisory board will be meeting the following four dates in the coming fiscal year. Um September 17th, >> December 17th, April 15th,
and May 13th. very similar schedule what we've had the last several years. Uh the pattern will follow that we hope to meet at the advis excuse me at the agricultural high school. We'll warm up that uh invitation with uh schools school staff when they return from
vacation. But uh the chair approves of these dates. Um meetings usually start at 6. The finance committee starts anywhere between 5:30 5:00 prior to that. So that's generally the guidelines that we will follow in fiscal year 26. uh former chair Elizabeth Child stopped
in um this afternoon and is looking to engage um the subcommittee on bylaws. Advisor over bylaws that was approved at the last meeting to start having a dialogue with the appointed individuals on that. Um assistant county director Bill Buckley will work with her to uh
manage those meetings and agendas. County Commissioners Association meeting is now scheduled for Thursday, August 7th at noon. Uh, all I know right now is it's in Fall River. The location will be shared by Pristol County, our host, as soon as they let us know. Um, so just
save the date right now. Uh, hopefully next week you will have a plumber candidate before you for uh, consideration of approval. We've completed our interviews. Uh, very capable and qualified individual. Uh, he's in background right now and I just want to let you know after some long period of time uh, with that vacancy, we
seem to have found somebody who's a good match. Uh hopefully you'll see them next week. Um if the commissioners haven't seen it on their way in uh the file storage room is now near complete. They should be wrapping it up today. Um the next phase will be the record movement from their current location, the blue
house under the registry of deeds. That will start next week. Um we're looking to also bring on a temporary employee for a period of two to three weeks to help with the record management, scanning, document uh document prep, uh excuse me. uh consistent with the
Massachusetts public records law student. So, more on that later, but the um process of filling up that room will start next week and likely take many weeks. I think in order to get it right, we want to make sure they filed properly and secured. And by the way, the job
came up great. Very happy. Uh performance evaluations for the department's heads have been uh set. I believe I have my first one this week. We'll wrap them up over the next week. This is the completion of uh review of goals for FY25 and the establishment setting of new goals for the department
head as for the coming fiscal year. I'll meet with the chairman so he could do my evaluation separately during this time period as well. But I just want to let the commissioners know it is the season as we end the fiscal year. That's our evaluation cycle. Uh shortly you'll be hearing more from me on the smoky policy. You may remember
about a month ago we had a complaint uh from individuals uh in one of our dental public buildings. We've looked into it. our facility superintendent um has had to do some uh digging for um information on public regs both at the state and local level. Um I still have some more
work to do before I put it before you, but I just want to let you know it's in progress. Um commissioners, in your packet, you should receive a copy of the letter that the uh county received addressed to me. Uh it's an approval of waiverss by the Department of Energy Resources uh for the North County
Agricultural High School. um EMSA grant. This is the solar project that had a couple of complaints filed against his MSA. Uh the waiverss were granted. So, uh that's a very favorable letter from DO dated June 26, 2025. Uh council has a copy of that letter as
well. And then finally, our FY24 audit is uh winding down. I think I've given the commissioners brief updates before uh after reading the most recent update. Uh the auditors are dealing exclusively at this time with the treasur's office on some um treasur's office matters. I
think they have what they need from all of our departments. So as soon as they are ready to pro uh provide their product, we'll get it in front of me for approval and we'll be up to date with all our audits. Uh and that's all I have this afternoon for you, Mr. Chairman. >> Okay.
Any questions for director? >> No, it's great to have all those dates, too. And again, just a note, I know it's not on our agenda, but the day we have the county meeting later at night, the chair of the trustees call for a special board
meeting, too. We can zoom in, but that's >> it's August 7th. So, it's August 7th, August 7th. Be a busy day for us. I know something to consider for you. >> Um, >> well, we'll be on the road. We're just going to switch over. >> Good. So, Director Buck gave me a copy.
We just for review, we're not signing it. >> We'll endorse it later. >> Okay. The rest were all multiple copies of page two. The printer. Blame the printer. But I didn't know if I wanted to share this with the chair or there's only one copy. >> Review it and we'll we'll endorse it after you review.
>> Okay. All right. Um, chairman, next week I'm going to have a slight problem perhaps being here. There's a very important event taking place at the state house with someone very close to me. >> Correct. >> So, I was just going to comment on confirmed on that. Uh, that should be
getting sworn in at 1:15 and uh, obviously I'd like to be in attendance. So, if you have the wherewithal to move our meeting to Tuesday or Thursday, I'm open to that. If not, I will have to say I won't be can't be zooming in on that one, but uh wanted to give you a heads
up. >> Okay. Well, we can talk about it. Make up my mind quickly. >> But congratulations. >> Thank you. >> We have a new state representative, not in North County, but right on the fringes. >> On the fringe.
>> Is that called the Bristol? >> Bristol. Third Bristol. >> Third Bristol. mostly mostly taught and a little bit eastern. So, a lot of challenges ahead, lots of challenges. Be good to have a friend in government, too. So, you know,
be interesting. >> Yeah, it's exciting, too. >> I mean, imagine winning an election by 10 votes. >> Yeah, very close. 15. >> 15. We started at 20. >> Yeah. Well, got a couple of recounts and then uh this morning the opponent >> It's eye opening though to do Oh very
yeah very very interesting process learned a lot >> very >> okay I have nothing else uh on on under number 16 the chair did not originally anticipate would be discussed I have
nothing else um I'll take a motion to adjourn a number director and I will talk about setting meeting date other probably other than next What is >> uh director Bucky did inform me before we leave he did want us to sign the
signature page. That's why I had so many copies. So he gave he would like us to sign before. >> Okay. >> Otherwise move we adjourn at 2 o'clock. >> Second. >> Motion made and seconded. All in favor?
>> I. We are journed at 2 p.m.