The presentation on the regionalization of the Stoughton VNA was led by Deborah Roberts, the immediate past chair of the Stoughton Select Board. Roberts outlined the dire financial challenges currently faced by the VNA, which is operating at a deficit of approximately $300,000 annually. The proposal seeks a minimum investment of $100,000 from the county, alongside annual contributions of $150,000 from participating towns, to stabilize and expand the VNA’s operations. This regional effort would serve towns including Stoughton, Avon, Brockton, Canton, Easton, Randolph, and Sharon, with the aim of becoming the sole municipal VNA on the South Shore.

Roberts emphasized the variety of services provided by the VNA, such as skilled nursing, physical and occupational therapy, speech therapy, and home health aid. Currently serving around 150 patients with approximately 2,100 visits annually, the VNA accepts various insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid.

Concerns were raised by a commissioner regarding the financial implications of county investment in this initiative. They noted that further analysis is necessary to understand the potential budgetary impacts and the interest among other municipalities in Norfolk County. The discussion also touched on the possibility of a county-wide nurse program modeled after those in neighboring counties to address gaps in healthcare services, particularly given challenges faced by local hospitals.

Roberts clarified that Stoughton would continue to serve as the administrative hub under the proposed model, with nurses and specialists deployed to serve patients in their respective communities. This approach is expected to create job opportunities and expand access to services. The proposal’s success relies on a comprehensive understanding of the financial landscape, including cost allocation and potential revenue from expanded services. One commissioner expressed the need for detailed financial projections to better understand the anticipated shortfalls that the investment aims to address.

The meeting further addressed public comments regarding staff promotions within the registry. A representative called for clarity on the promotional process, expressing frustration over discrepancies in the number of promotions that could be filled. The timeline for decisions on promotions, as outlined in the collective bargaining agreement, was emphasized as critical. The commissioners acknowledged the letter received on this matter but adhered to protocol, refraining from immediate discussion during the public comment period.

Following these discussions, the commissioners approved several administrative matters, including the appointment of Robin Pitz as a school finance associate at the North Park County Agricultural High School, starting November 2024. They also acknowledged the retirement of a long-serving kitchen staff member, Betty Duette, later that same month.

In financial matters, the board approved various warrants and expense items, including county and school payrolls. They also highlighted the urgency for six communities with expiring grant contracts to act swiftly to avoid losing funds. Updates were provided on grant applications, particularly from the probate department, and the need for eligible submissions was reiterated.

Two significant procurement items were also discussed. The commissioners approved a one-year lease extension for The View Restaurant, with two additional one-year options available, following a positive operational review. Additionally, a contract for comprehensive investigative and consulting services was awarded, capped at $7,500, set to expire in April 2024.

The board also approved the use of county buildings by the North County Bar Association for legal assistance events and finalized the 2025 holiday schedule, which includes Juneteenth as a recognized holiday. A letter from the Alzheimer’s Association was acknowledged, detailing the success of a fundraising walk supported by a county recovery grant.

Before concluding the meeting, the board discussed opioid funding interest letters from community groups, with a submission deadline of November 22. The county’s Advisory Board is scheduled to meet in December, with requests for budget transfers or supplements due by early December for review.