Treasurer O’Brien provided an update on the status of ARPA funding, highlighting the approval of 221 applications and the rejection of 50, with 31 others canceled or withdrawn. He stressed the urgency of processing 80 outstanding applications, underscoring the significance of the scheduled meetings on December 30 and December 31, 2024, which are dedicated to addressing these pending applications. The commissioners unanimously approved a motion related to health care costs, allowing for up to $2.5 million in reimbursement for expenses incurred by Plymouth County in 2024. This placeholder amount was described as a precautionary measure to ensure the county remains financially stable in the face of unforeseen healthcare expenditures.

The allocation of ARPA funds to various towns was a focal point of the meeting, with Treasurer O’Brien detailing specific grant disbursements. Carver received $176,800, Duxbury was allocated $49,300, and East Bridgewater benefited from $581,500, among others. Each town’s allocation was subject to a vote, all of which passed unanimously. The importance of compliance with federal terms and conditions was emphasized throughout the meeting, with a strong focus on ensuring that allocated funds are utilized effectively to avoid returning unspent money to the federal government.

In addition to financial allocations, the meeting addressed the broader administration of ARPA funds. The treasurer praised his office staff for their dedication and long hours, particularly as the holiday season approached. He acknowledged the significant work that remained in managing the distribution of these crucial funds, expressing gratitude for the ongoing support from the commissioners.

The meeting also featured a report on the Northeast annual meeting of mosquito control. This event was noted for its success and the fruitful discussions that took place. Simultaneously, agricultural activities within the county were highlighted, with successful garlic planting and plans for spring planting being discussed. Massachusetts Agriculture Day, scheduled for March 18, will coincide with National Agriculture Day for the first time, and a large delegation is expected to participate in the event at the State House.

Health insurance was another topic covered during the meeting. Treasurer O’Brien reported on a meeting with the Mayflower team and consultants, highlighting a significant national trend of rising health insurance rates, projected to increase between 14% and 18%. This increase is one of the highest rates seen in decades, raising concerns about its impact on governmental entities. Seven groups have expressed interest in joining Mayflower due to its favorable conditions, though their names remain undisclosed as discussions with their employees are not yet finalized.

The possibility of imposing a commitment of three to five years on new member communities interested in joining Mayflower was raised to mitigate potential risks associated with incident rates. However, O’Brien clarified that the existing agreement does not allow for such conditions. He noted that the organizational structure and financial reserves of Mayflower have been significant incentives for groups to remain with the organization. Past experiences of groups that left Mayflower, only to face higher costs and leave behind substantial reserve funds, were recounted.

The unique structure of Mayflower, which includes diverse stakeholder representation in voting processes, was discussed as an advantage in meeting the needs of all members. O’Brien mentioned that most communities have notification requirements for their current providers that could range from a year to 18 months before joining Mayflower.

In terms of infrastructure, Maintenance Administrator Mr. Basler reported on various activities, including a training meeting that had near-full attendance. A leak in one of the steam lines at the Brockton building was also reported, involving hazardous materials. Emergency mitigation requests are being pursued with the state, and plans are in place to perform the required work during the holidays when the building will be unoccupied.