The update on the wildfire defense initiative was presented by Michael Maguire, director of the cooperative extension. He highlighted the county’s history in wildfire planning, referencing the first regional wildfire plan developed between 2008 and 2012. However, changes in forestry demographics and the increasing frequency of wildfires necessitate a new approach. The Cape Islands Fire Chief Association supports the project, emphasizing the importance of a collaborative effort among fire chiefs to address the unique challenges posed by the Cape’s geography.

During the meeting, the importance of assessing areas with the greatest wildfire risk, such as heavily wooded regions and the urban-wildfire interface, was underscored. The commissioners discussed the proactive role of local fire departments in educating homeowners about reducing wildfire risks. Some communities have already initiated programs to help residents protect their properties. The changing nature of fire department resources was noted, with a shift from forest fire response to addressing various fire risks due to increased residential development.

Maguire also mentioned AmeriCorps members’ involvement in creating fire breaks and reducing fuel loads, in collaboration with local fire departments. Joint Base Cape Cod is expected to provide additional resources for advancing the plan. The comprehensive plan aims to align with the unique needs of each locality and enable the county to secure further federal and state funding for implementation.

Another topic of discussion was the $90,000 grant awarded by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection for a sustainable materials recovery program focusing on food rescue. This grant, the largest in its applicant pool, aims to address food insecurity by facilitating the efficient redistribution of food nearing expiration. A regional food recovery portal will be established, connecting distributors, restaurants, grocery stores, and food pantries. A food rescue program manager will be hired through the Cape Cod Council of Churches, and outreach efforts will be initiated to maximize the program’s efficacy. The significance of diverting nearly 20% of local food waste to benefit those in need was highlighted.

The conversation also addressed ongoing challenges with food insecurity, particularly in light of federal shortfalls in SNAP funding. The critical role of local organizations was acknowledged, with discussions on synchronizing community initiatives to improve food access. The importance of a balanced approach to regulation for local food producers, particularly farmers and fishermen, was noted. Specific regulatory burdens hindering local food producers were discussed, emphasizing the need for support in navigating these challenges.

The meeting also covered updates on the municipal fire training facility’s remediation site project. Representatives from GZA, a consulting firm, presented their approach to addressing residual contamination at the site. The importance of engaging with external stakeholders to share information and gather input was stressed. The geographical context of the site was discussed, highlighting the interconnected nature of different contamination sources, including an airport and a wastewater treatment facility. The collaborative efforts between the consultants, commissioners, and stakeholders were emphasized as essential for achieving effective remediation outcomes.

Further discussions centered around the investigation of groundwater contamination related to the fire training facility and its associated plumes. Sixteen multi-level monitoring wells were installed to better understand the extent of contamination. The investigation revealed a well-defined plume originating from the facility and an unexplained plume to the south. The complexities of groundwater flow in the area, influenced by a water treatment facility, were noted. Efforts to understand the impact of contamination on the ecosystem, including fish and benthic organisms, were discussed. The ecological risk assessment will support ongoing remediation efforts.

The Board also discussed the ongoing renovations at the Registry of Deeds and the Superior Courthouse. A proposed ordinance for a supplemental budget request for the Registry of Deeds basement renovation was approved. The renovation will create space for county staff displaced during courthouse renovations. The importance of maintaining access to deed files during the transition was noted.