The meeting’s most pressing matter was the ongoing battle against the opioid epidemic in Halifax and neighboring communities. The executive director of Plymouth County Outreach (PCO) underscored the importance of continued support for their initiatives, which have reportedly reduced fatal overdoses in Plymouth County by 32% in 2024 compared to the previous year. The director highlighted services like post-overdose follow-ups and proactive outreach to individuals at risk, which are offered free of charge and without reliance on insurance. “Seventy-five fatal overdoses is 75 too many,” she stated, emphasizing the persistent challenges in tackling substance use issues.

The discussion delved into the financial sustainability of PCO’s programs, as federal funding had expired in September. The town of Halifax was called upon to contribute financially through opioid settlement funds. The board clarified that Halifax had been an active participant since the program’s inception, but this request signified a new phase of involvement. The criteria for spending the opioid settlement funds were also discussed, with a local chief noting the difficulty of aligning community ideas with funding requirements.

A personal account from a speaker highlighted the shift from traditional law enforcement approaches to a more supportive and stigma-free strategy in addressing drug addiction. They recounted experiences from the early 2000s, where overdoses were responded to daily, stressing the ineffectiveness of arrest-based solutions. Instead, the focus has shifted to providing families with resources and support following overdoses. The speaker cited a recent incident where PCO intervened effectively after an overdose outside its jurisdiction.

Further, Halifax had received $84,198 in funds allocated to a revolving account for addressing drug use-related issues, payable until 2039. The conversation explored potential uses for these funds, including supporting PCO or other local initiatives, although no alternative programs currently exist. The need for sustainable funding beyond current allocations was acknowledged, with the assurance that the request was merely to direct existing funds to support ongoing efforts.

In parallel to the opioid discussion, the Selectmen engaged in advancing a solar energy project presented by representatives from New Gen Capital. The project, initially proposed as a 2-megawatt site, was finalized at 1.5 megawatts on Summit Street. The representatives highlighted the project’s potential to yield approximately $42,000 in annual electricity savings for Halifax, totaling around $1 million over 25 years. A 20% net metering credit was proposed, which is notably higher than typical offers for towns of similar size. The urgency of the project was stressed, as construction needed to commence by 2026 to maximize benefits.

The developers reassured the board that the project was fully permitted and ready for construction, with all regulatory boards consulted. There would be no battery storage involved, deemed a safer option. The board was asked to authorize negotiations for a power purchase agreement with New Gen Capital. A donation of $2,500 was promised upon the project’s commercial operation, along with commitments to support local STEM education initiatives.

Attention also turned to the Holidays in Halifax event, with the board approving the use of the town green for the event scheduled for December 13, 2025. A new committee member expressed enthusiasm to join, bringing experience from community events elsewhere. The event plans included a tree lighting and a potential performance by the local elementary school chorus, with a rain date set for December 14.

A motion to authorize hiring for these positions passed unanimously. The appointment of a new wiring inspector was also approved, despite some concerns about his absence at the meeting.

Town Administrator Bob Fennessy provided updates, including a reduction in aggregation rates from National Grid, effective December, and news of nine high-quality proposals for the senior center project. Fennessy also noted the search for plow truck drivers for the winter season, with an early sign-on bonus as an incentive.

The meeting touched on fiscal year 2027’s budgetary outlook, with a somewhat lean budget anticipated. Discussions with department heads were planned to establish a sustainable financial path. Residents were reminded of the upcoming water main flushing and advised accordingly.