The meeting’s highlight was the approval of $16,500 in opioid grant distributions to various Norfolk County organizations, a continuation of the county’s participation in the national opioid settlement program. This round of funding follows previous allocations totaling over $2.5 million distributed to 15 organizations involved in substance abuse initiatives. The organizations receiving the current grants include Gillies House in Rentham and entities from towns such as Braintree, Canton, and Cohasset. Director Cronin confirmed that 11 out of 21 organizations submitted successful applications this year, despite the modest additional amount of $237 received as of September 2024. The program aims to maintain a sustainable approach to addressing substance abuse, with an anticipated $4,000 to $5,000 in annual receipts to fund eligible organizations. The commissioners expressed satisfaction with the program’s progress and the collaboration with the District Attorney’s office.

The discussion then shifted to the fiscal year 2026 budget, highlighting key challenges and procedural steps. There is particular emphasis on the uncertainty surrounding cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) due to ongoing negotiations. In response, the commissioners are planning for a 0% increase in COLAs until final figures are confirmed. Once determined, these will be funded through a centralized reserve account. The timeline for budget submissions and reviews was outlined, with department budgets due by February 4, and review sessions commencing on February 19. A public hearing is scheduled for March 12, followed by a vote on March 26. Commissioner Shay noted that this scheduling follows a familiar pattern from previous years, though a potential scheduling conflict was identified, prompting further discussion with the director.

Remote participation in meetings was also a point of concern, given the impending expiration of current guidelines on March 25. The board acknowledged the importance of maintaining remote access to support government transparency, and arrangements will be made to explore an extension.

Personnel matters were addressed, including the approved resignation of Marilyn Becker from the Norfolk County Agricultural High School, effective March 1, 2024. This follows clarification on previous confusion about the resignation process. Additionally, Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) notices for two employees were approved, with effective dates in early 2025.

In other updates, the county director informed the commissioners that policymakers would soon receive notifications from the state ethics commission regarding their obligation to file annual online statements of financial interest by May 27. He also noted the absence of an ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) update from the agenda.

The director shared plans for a collaborative meeting with the registry of deeds to address hiring process issues. An air quality report from the District Court returned favorable results with recommendations to improve air circulation and filtration, which will be discussed in an upcoming Zoom call. Meanwhile, the building management system project funded by ARPA is moving forward, with the paperwork being finalized for implementation.

The meeting also included a moment of silence to honor the late former Canton Police Chief Kent Burwitz, who was commended for his extensive law enforcement career and wide-reaching associations. The board extended condolences to his family.