During his address, he expressed profound gratitude towards his predecessors and peers for their support, attributing his achievements to the collaborative efforts of the board and community. Valena emphasized the county’s successful administration of nearly $200 million in COVID relief funds. He acknowledged the county’s low pension liabilities and touted initiatives like the Mobile Integrated Health program, which aims to enhance healthcare delivery in the region.

Looking ahead, Valena outlined his priorities, which include expanding regional services and tackling hunger through the establishment of a food resiliency center. He conveyed enthusiasm for collaborating with local organizations and underscored the importance of county government, stating, “I will always be an unapologetic cheerleader for the work we do at the county level.” The Chairman also praised the efforts of Commissioner Wright, Treasurer O’Brien, and Administrator Basler for their unwavering dedication and support.

In addition to Valena’s swearing-in, John Buckley was reaffirmed as Register of Deeds. Buckley took the opportunity to discuss the vital role of registers in maintaining the integrity of property titles and the importance of modernizing the registry to provide high-quality customer service. He highlighted the volume of documents managed annually and the need to adhere to strict standards in recording them.

The meeting also featured a discussion on the historical significance of Plymouth County, with reflections on its foundational role in American history. A member of the board expressed pride in the county’s contributions, such as producing boots for the Northern Army during the Civil War and its cranberry farming industry. A quote from St. Mother Teresa was shared, emphasizing the importance of kindness and perseverance in public service.

Technical difficulties briefly disrupted the meeting when Mr. Harton encountered audio issues. Despite these challenges, Harton eventually communicated via speakerphone, expressing his interest in remaining on the Plymouth County Retirement Board. His dedication was acknowledged by Commissioner Wright, who expressed appreciation for his service.

Financial matters were addressed, with the acceptance and approval of vouchers and payroll, which passed unanimously. Treasurer O’Brien reported on the American Recovery Plan Act, mentioning no new obligations for the evening, with the program’s conclusion set for December 31, 2024. O’Brien also shared that an additional payment of $3 million to the Plymouth County Retirement Board would help reduce future obligations.

Interest in the Municipal Health Group was increasing, with Treasurer O’Brien indicating that two towns were considering rejoining the group. He explained the mechanisms for these towns to buy back into the fund over time, pointing to the robust trust fund maintained by the group.

In the maintenance and administrative support report, challenges arising from illnesses among team members were noted. Despite these difficulties, the maintenance team continued its work on infrastructure projects. It was reported that the county’s dredge was currently operating in Yarmouth and would soon move to Falmouth.