Justin Evans
Express correspondent
The Plympton Board of Selectmen presented Police Sergeant John Simon during the June 9 meeting with a certificate recognizing his receipt of the Bronze Star Medal, honoring his exceptional service during a recent military deployment.
“On behalf of the citizens of the town of Plympton, we present this certificate to Sergeant John Simon of the Plympton Police Department, in recognition of his dedicated service to our country as a recipient of the United States Army Bronze Star,” said Chair Dana Smith during the presentation.
The Bronze Star was awarded for Simon’s “exceptionally meritorious service in support of combined joint task force operation inherent resolve.” The citation noted that “Captain Simon’s outstanding performance during operations in support of the coalition contributed to the overwhelming success of the command’s mission.”
State Representative Kathy LaNatra also attended the ceremony to present Simon with a proclamation from the Massachusetts House of Representatives.
“I’m honored to be here with you today. It’s my honor, my privilege to bring you a citation from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts,” LaNatra said.
Simon, who has served with the U.S. Army since 2009 and is currently a heavy weapons commander for the Massachusetts National Guard, expressed gratitude while emphasizing the importance of his team.
“This Bronze Star would be nothing without the soldiers that I run with, my leadership that came with me, and most importantly, everyone came home with us,” Simon said. “No one was injured. It was a very successful deployment.”
He also acknowledged the challenges his family faced during his absence.
“My wife was a true champion as well because she was home taking care of the household. My parents, my mother-in-law, were also taking care of the house,” Simon said. “When it comes to deployments, it’s not only tough on the soldiers, but it’s tough on the families as well.”
Simon thanked Plympton Police Chief Matthew Ahl for supporting his military service, noting the chief has been “100% supportive of everything I do when it comes to training, missions I’ve got to do, deployments.”
Following the ceremony, the Town Properties Committee presented findings from a safety inspection at the fire station, highlighting three violations that must be addressed within 30 to 90 days.
“Those three items are violations that we will be citing for,” said Ross MacPherson from the Committee. “The safety inspector noted during his inspection that they usually talk about pinch points in terms of machinery. But given that some of the bumpers of the vehicles overlap each other to try to get in, that there may be issues there.”
The violations include water leaking near an electrical panel, problems with the heating system, and floor drains in the apparatus bay that connect directly to the septic system.
“The electrical panel was put in when the water was there first. So, the electrical panel got put in and probably shouldn’t have been right in that spot,” explained John Wilhelmsen, Chair of the Town Properties Committee.
The heating system presents another challenge, with ducts located under the slab where water tends to collect.
“Water that comes off the field goes downhill. Comes to the back of the building, can come in, and of course it’s going to go to the lowest point, and that is the heating ducts,” Wilhelmsen said.
Perhaps most concerning is the floor drain issue, which Wilhelmsen described as “probably the more costly of the three items.”
“Each of the floor drains connects to the drain that’s in the bathroom that connects to the septic, which is a slight issue if we were to have a diesel spill or an oil spill in the apparatus bay because it’s draining down back behind the panel bar and into each of them,” he explained.
The timing of these violations comes just after voters rejected a $14 million proposal for a new fire station. While the measure passed at town meeting, it failed at the ballot box.
Town Administrator Liz Dennehy asked whether the inspector would have given more leeway if the fire station had been approved.
“Yes. In fact, he thought the building was approved for a new station,” Wilhelmsen responded. “And we said, well, no. We did approve it at town meeting. We did not approve it at the ballot, so there isn’t a new station going in.”
The Board of Selectmen and Town Properties Committee discussed several options moving forward, including attempting another ballot measure with better public education, scaling back the project, or starting over with a completely new design.
Vice Chair Mark Russo expressed concern about spending money on temporary fixes.
“I think the big selling point is just this, that we’ve decided I have a feeling we’re looking at hundreds of thousands of dollars to put on a band-aid when we have the best option before us,” Russo said. “We’ve spent 10 years, more than 10 years, I think it’s 12 years to get to here and to go back six years is silly.”
Committee members emphasized that renovating the existing building would likely cost more than building new.
“To do a renovation over there even if we just bolt something on, we’ve got to bring the whole building up to code,” MacPherson explained. “Any contractor is going to look at that and go, ‘well the most expensive thing in construction is the unknown.’”
The discussion also touched on improving communication with residents about the fire station needs. Dana Smith suggested using more modern communication methods.
“I think if those, say, for instance, your meeting was actually, as this is being produced on YouTube, effectively, through Area 58, if your meetings were on that, somebody could, you know, see that at 3 o’clock in the morning if they wanted to,” Smith said.
Smith emphasized the importance of making information more accessible to residents.
“I feel it’s our duty to do so in the most ways possible,” he said. “Does it have to be social media? No. Does it have to be an actual physical website? No. But could the actual meetings that you guys have be on YouTube, you know, and be more accessible to people so they understand?”
The board did not make a final decision on next steps but acknowledged the need to address the violations quickly while developing a longer-term plan.
“We need to look at it, and I think more information to people will help out as far as what people have to understand,” Smith said. “This is not going away. This is something that needs to be addressed.”
New Halifax water restrictions now in effect
Effective June 5, 2025, new water restrictions were put into place as follows:
No outdoor watering on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays.
Outdoor watering, including the use of lawn sprinklers and automobile washing, is permitted on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays before 9 a.m. and after 5 p.m.
The Board of Water Commissioners appreciates everyone’s cooperation in conserving water to avoid a total water ban.
If these restrictions are not adhered to, the following fines will be enforced:
1st Offense – Verbal Warning
2nd Offense – $50 fine
3rd Offense – $100 fine
4th Offense – TERMINATION OF WATER SERVICE AND $250 TURN-ON FEE.
The increased demand we have experienced can threaten public safety and the quality of public drinking water. In extreme cases, high water use can threaten the ability of Municipalities to store water for water pressure and fire protection purposes.
Watering during the heat of the day does not help your lawn and wastes water.
If you have a well, please visit the Board of Health office to obtain a well or irrigation well number.
This number must be posted on the front lawn to prevent the Water or Police Departments from stopping at your house to enforce this policy. For questions, you should contact the Water Department by visiting their office at 500 Plymouth Street or calling (781) 293-1733. The Board of Water Commissioners appreciates your cooperation.
Spalluzzi awarded Boston Post Cane
At a small ceremony at the Kingston Senior Center, town officials were proud to present Margaret Spalluzzi with The Boston Post Cane, signifying and celebrating that she is Kingston’s oldest resident, at 103 years young! The Boston Post Cane dates back to 1909 and Kingston has had one since 1985. Margaret’s cane is a replica of the permanent cane that is encased and securely displayed at the Kingston Town House. Her name will be added to the list of recipients.
Margaret worked as a welder at the Hingham Shipyard from 1942 to 1945 and is believed to be the last surviving World War II “Rosie the Riveter” in Massachusetts. She recently received a Congressional Gold Medal at a ceremony at the State House for her service during the war.
She is a longtime supporter of the Council on Aging, attending lunches and classes weekly, and a dedicated member of The Friends of the Kingston Council on Aging.
Congratulations, Margaret!
Pictured (L-R): Assistant Town Clerk, Janna Morrissey; State Representative Kathy LaNatra, Margaret Spalluzzi, Town Administrator, Keith Hickey; Director of Elder Affairs, Holly Nighelli
1.6 MW solar project host agreement approved
Justin Evans
Express correspondent
The Halifax Board of Selectmen welcomed new member Bill Smith and unanimously approved a host community agreement for a solar project during their May 27 meeting. Smith, a former Finance Committee member and local police chief, joins Chair Jonathan Selig and Vice Chair Thomas Pratt on the newly reorganized board.
“I promise to do my best. In my opinion, all three of us are equal partners in this,” Selig said after being named chair. “I look forward to working with them. I look forward to getting our hands dirty and trying to lead the town through good times and bad.”
The board approved a request from NuGen Capital to serve as host community for a 1.6 megawatt solar project at 69 Summit Street. The project had previously been denied under the state’s SMART program but can proceed under the net metering program with the town’s support.
Laura Frazier, managing director of business development and strategy at NuGen Capital, explained that the company needs the town to become a “host customer” to secure cap allocation in the net metering program.
“The net metering program is still, there’s still enough capacity available to place this project into the net metering program,” Frazier said. “What we are asking is if you can help us help this homeowner and this landlord help us save the project.”
Frazier assured the board that becoming a host customer carries no financial obligation or cost to the town. The arrangement would require the town to sign documents as an administrator, with NuGen Capital handling the paperwork.
Town Administrator Cody Haddad noted that while there doesn’t seem to be a negative aspect to the agreement, the board should consider whether it sets a precedent for future requests.
“You could have other private developers. It sounds like the cap is almost there, so you might not run into that issue. But if there were more capacity, you could have other private companies come in and look for the town to be a host for this,” Haddad said.
The solar project has already received all necessary approvals from town boards, including Planning, Zoning, and Conservation. Frazier estimated the project would generate significant tax revenue for the town, noting that NuGen’s existing Halifax solar project pays $45,500 annually under its PILOT (Payment in Lieu of Taxes) agreement.
Pratt emphasized the potential financial benefit to the town.
“If it’s passed A, B, C, and X, Y, Z, and now they’re just looking for a way to get to the finish line, and it means tax revenue for a town that is facing an override,” Pratt said. “I don’t know that it’s responsible for us to deny something that’s gotten this far.”
The board also discussed forming a committee to investigate a potential Proposition 2 1/2 override, citing financial challenges faced by many towns in the area.
“I think it’s no secret that going forward, essentially almost every town in our area is facing financial struggles,” Selig said. “Several have had overrides put on the ballot. If they haven’t already, they will be, probably in the following year.”
Selig suggested creating a committee with representatives from the Board of Selectmen, Finance Committee, school committees, and citizens at large to explore cost-saving measures and revenue-generating ideas.
“My thought was, does the board have any appetite to start some sort of committee to start investigating the possibility?” Selig asked. “To me, to wait until January or February to try to tackle this, when we know it’s likely coming, I think seems a little short-sighted.”
Smith and Pratt expressed support for the idea, with Smith noting, “The more people that are involved, get more opinions. It’s definitely, I believe, going to be happening, an override.”
Pratt emphasized the importance of public education about a potential override.
“I think maybe the biggest thing that a group like this could provide is just repeated and advancing education as we get closer. What it looks like, what it feels like, what impact it will have,” Pratt said.
Haddad cautioned that the committee would need clear direction and noted the town’s limited options for revenue growth.
“We’re geographically challenged in Halifax. So our revenue is sometimes new growth is challenging,” Haddad said. “There’s not a lot of options for local revenue growth that can be done at the local level.”
The board agreed to have Selig research the committee concept further and bring recommendations to a future meeting.
In other business, the board:
– Approved a revised purchasing and procurement policy, increasing the threshold for purchase orders from $2,500 to $5,000
– Authorized a contract amendment with Tighe & Bond for landfill monitoring, including PFAS testing, for $19,900
– Appointed Smith as the town’s representative to GATRA (Greater Attleboro Taunton Regional Transit Authority)
– Approved an agreement with Maria Bumpus to serve as Acting Library Director and a consulting agreement with former Director Jean Gallant
– Authorized a revised agreement with Lighthouse Legal Services for HR services
The board also heard an update on the regionalization study involving Halifax, Plimpton, and Kingston. Selig reported that the Collins Center will meet with the committee on June 18 to discuss the process, with the study being funded through a grant at no cost to the town.
25 Local Firefighters graduate from State Fire Academy
STOW—State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine announced the graduation of 25 recruits from the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy’s Call/Volunteer Recruit Firefighter Training Program.
Three from the Halifax Fire Department, Samuel Capodanno, Aiyanna Davis, and Liam Spillane were among the graduates.
The members of Call/Volunteer Recruit Class #118 trained at the Academy’s Bridgewater campus and graduated at the Department of Fire Services’ main campus in Stow. They represent the fire departments of Avon, Dartmouth Fire District 1, Dartmouth Fire District 2, Duxbury, Freetown, Grafton, Halifax, Hanson, Lakeville, Norwell, Onset, Raynham, and Westport.
“Massachusetts firefighters are on the frontlines protecting their communities every day, and today’s graduates are needed now more than ever,” said State Fire Marshal Davine. “The hundreds of hours of foundational training they’ve received on nights and weekends will provide them with the physical, mental, and technical skills to perform their jobs effectively and safely.”
“Massachusetts Firefighting Academy instructors draw on decades of experience in the fire service to train new recruits,” said MFA Deputy Director of Training Dennis A. Ball. “Through consistent classroom instruction and practical exercises, tonight’s graduates have developed the tools they’ll need to protect their communities.”
The Martin H. McNamara Outstanding Student Award was presented to Firefighter Kayla Kalamajka of Dartmouth Fire District 1. The award is named for Martin “Marty” McNamara V, a call firefighter with the Lancaster Fire Department who lost his life in the line of duty in 2003 while battling a fire in a multifamily home. It is presented to one recruit in each graduating call/volunteer training class and recognizes their academic and practical skills, testing, and evaluations over the course of the program.
Video of the ceremony will be posted tomorrow at the Department of Fire Services’ YouTube channel, www.youtube.com/dfsosfm.
The Call/Volunteer Firefighter Recruit Training Program is unique in that it delivers a standard recruit training curriculum, meeting national standards, on nights and weekends to accommodate the schedule of firefighters in suburban and rural areas. Making the training more accessible means more firefighters can participate and allows them more time to practice training skills with instructors.
The MFA, a division of the Department of Fire Services, has offered the program since 2003. More than 3,000 call and volunteer recruits have graduated since then.
Today’s Firefighters Do Far More than Fight Fires
Today’s firefighters train for all types of hazards and emergencies. They are the first ones called to chemical and environmental emergencies, ranging from the suspected presence of carbon monoxide to Fentanyl overdoses or a gas leak. They may be called to rescue children who have fallen through the ice or locked themselves in a bathroom. They rescue people from stalled elevators and crashed vehicles. They must test, maintain, and utilize equipment such as self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), hydrants, hoses, power tools, and apparatus.
At the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy, they learn all these skills and more, including the latest science of fire behavior and suppression tactics, from certified fire instructors. They also receive training in public fire education, hazardous material incident mitigation, flammable liquids, stress management, and self-rescue techniques. The intensive program involves classroom instruction, physical fitness training, firefighter skills training, and live firefighting practice.
Students receive classroom training in all basic firefighter skills. They practice first under non-fire conditions and then during controlled fire conditions. To graduate, students must demonstrate proficiency in life safety, search and rescue, ladder operations, water supply, pump operation, and fire attack. Fire attack operations range from mailbox fires to multiple-floor or multiple room structural fires.
Graduates have completed 240 hours of training on nights and weekends. Upon successful completion of this program, all students have met the national standards of NFPA 1001, Standard for Fire Fighter Professional Qualifications. In addition, they have the ability to become certified to the level of Firefighter I/II and Hazardous Materials First Responder Operations Level by the Massachusetts Fire Training Council, which is accredited by the National Board on Fire Service Professional Qualifications.
A little corner of Heaven in Plympton
Alan Wheelock
Special to the Express
Plympton has long had a beautiful and varied natural landscape – white cedar swamps, red maple wetlands, cranberry bogs, open fields, and uplands dominated by beech, hemlock, oaks, white ash, American holly, and white pine. As old stone walls running through the woods attest, much of the town was once cleared for agriculture. It has been said that, in the 19th century, the church in the center of Halifax could easily be seen by people standing at The Green in Plympton!
Slow population growth and extensive wetlands have helped large areas of Plympton remain untouched and natural. In recent years, however, the growth of the surrounding South Shore towns has ratcheted up the pressure on this 318-year-old community. Plympton residents – who consistently rate “preserving the rural landscape and character of the town” as their highest priority when they are surveyed by the Plympton Open Space Committee, have played a very active role in land conservation in the town.
During the past 15 years, new information about Massachusetts’s environment and habitat has highlighted how special Plympton’s natural areas are, and how they provide residents with economic as well as environmental benefits. Plympton’s dependence on two aquifers to support our well water and septic systems has become a top priority and concern. Given the increasing threats to our water quality, preservation of land has emerged as a key component of a long-term solution to these challenges.
Despite its small population and limited financial resources, Plympton has responded to these development pressures effectively – both in terms of acres protected and cost. Linda Leddy of West Street, who led the Open Space Committee for many years, stated that “Preserving the town’s incredible natural resources for now and the future brought together Plympton’s amazing residents to answer the challenge. Plympton people brought a huge array of talent, energy and determination to this job, making it both successful and (mostly) a lot of fun!”
During the last fifteen years, Plympton has created several beautiful and valuable conservation areas, including:
• Churchill Park and Cato’s Ridge, which covers over 104 acres and stretches from Main Street to Ring Road. It includes a large percentage of Plympton’s portion of the Plymouth-Carver aquifer, which supplies water to residents east of Main Street.
• Two Brooks Preserve, encompassing 133 acres off Winnetuxet Road, is generally regarded as one of the loveliest conservation areas on the South Shore. It is part of the Taunton River Watershed and helps protect the aquifer west of Main Street.
• Turkey Swamp, Plympton’s largest project to date, was successfully concluded in 2024 and contains 238 acres. This preserved land is of critical environmental importance, containing some of the finest white cedar swamp still existing in Massachusetts. It also creates an important natural corridor that provides a connection with the other preserves and plays a significant role in protecting the town’s aquifers and critical wildlife habitats.
Leddy noted that it has been gratifying to see the time and effort that Plympton residents have invested in preserving the beauty and groundwater of their town. She described the creativity and work that large numbers of townspeople have devoted to making these conservation projects a reality. For example, the effort to save both Cato’s Ridge and Two Brooks Preserve included fundraising events, the construction of several stunning boardwalks built primarily with volunteer labor, and the development of extensive trail systems in the park – again relying heavily on the work of committed volunteers. Today, the parks are often used by local families out for a walk in the woods, bird watching, and, in a large portion of the land, hunting.
Turkey Swamp was helped immensely by a state program entitled the Municipal Vulnerabilities Program, a forward-looking effort by Massachusetts to help mitigate the growing impact of climate change. Leddy led a significant effort to garner support from the state – ably assisted by Wildlands Trust and Bill Napolitano from SRPEDD (Southeastern Regional Planning and Economic Development District). That work resulted in Plympton being awarded a $500,000 grant from MVP – the largest grant in the history of the town. That grant, combined with funds from the Plympton Community Preservation Committee, allowed this large and vitally important piece of wetland to be preserved in perpetuity.
All three of these preserves have received strong support from Plympton’s Community Preservation Committee, as well as from more than 100 generous private donors and contributions from charitable organizations.
Mark Russo, Chairman of the Community Preservation Committee and member of the Board of Selectmen, has played a key role in supporting and advocating on behalf of this long and sustained effort to preserve land.”
In a recent summary of Plympton’s newest (2024) Open Space and Recreation Plan, referring to these three preserves, it was stated that: “These 475 acres have been permanently conserved for a total purchase price of $1,034,725, or $2,176 per acre.” Leddy also said, “The other key point is that NO general tax funds have been used to pay for the $1 million in preserve acquisition costs. Our strategy from the beginning was to work with partners to bring a variety of funding sources to the goal. As a result, 41% came from state grants, 33% from CPC, and 24% from generous donations by individuals and charities.”
Leddy concluded that, while much has been accomplished, much more remains to be done. In 2012, Plympton had just 1% of its land protected – the lowest in the state. With these new preserves and related projects by land trusts having come into existence, 10% of Plympton’s land area is now protected. However, the average percentage of preserved land in Massachusetts towns is 27%. Residents interested in learning more about how to protect their land are encouraged to reach out to any member of the Plympton Open Space Committee or the Plympton Conservation Commission.
Healey- Driscoll administration declares “Growing Wild ” program for Massachusetts
Massachusetts Expands Free Growing Wild Starter Kit Program to 27 Locations; DCR, MDAR, and MNLA Encourage Residents to ‘Pledge Your Garden’ and Help Restore Pollinator Habitats
BOSTON – The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), Department of Agricultural Resources and the Massachusetts Nursery and Landscape Association (MNLA announced the launch of the fifth year of the Growing Wild program, encouraging the public to preserve and protect pollinator habitats by inspiring residents to plant native species and pledge their gardens in support of pollinators. To commemorate this initiative, Governor Maura Healey proclaimed May 30 as “Growing Wild Day” in Massachusetts, marking a major milestone in the state’s expanding effort to protect native species and restore pollinator habitats.
As part of this year’s program, Growing Wild is offering free pollinator starter kits at 18 nurseries and six DCR parks across the state. Additionally, DCR, for the first time, has partnered with Hassanamisco Nipmuc Band, Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe, and Herring Pond Wampanoag Tribe to offer plants to Indigenous communities for their use and enjoyment. Native plants like Milkweed and Joe Pye Weed are valued in Indigenous culture and traditions. In honor of the program’s fifth year, state and local leaders will gather at Rogers Spring Hill Garden Center in Haverhill for a public launch event celebrating the program’s continued growth and impact across the state.
“Growing native plants and attracting pollinators in our gardens is a great way to show our commitment to protecting nature and wildlife,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper. “The Growing Wild program helps us to transform lawns into safe havens for pollinators like bees and butterflies. I am proud to be a part of the Growing Wild community and to use native plants in my own backyard.”
As part of this year’s initiative, and in celebration of the start of National Pollinators Month in June, Growing Wild is offering free starter kits that include two one-gallon native perennial plants, native seed packets, and educational resources on pollinator-friendly gardening.
“The Growing Wild program enables us to partner with our state agency and nursery partners to give residents the tools to create and nurture their own pollinator and native plant gardens, helping make our landscapes more resilient,” said DCR Commissioner Brian Arrigo. “Through this program and the free Growing Wild starter kits, we are fostering a sense of shared stewardship of our public and private green spaces, protecting biodiversity, enhancing the natural beauty of our communities. Together, we are nurturing a brighter, greener future, one garden at a time.”
“We are excited to see the Growing Wild program grow year after year,” said MDAR Commissioner Ashley Randle. “Residents who plant native and supporting pollinators are helping to build a more resilient food system, so this kind of public engagement initiative is important for agricultural sustainability in Massachusetts.”
Pollinators—primarily bees, butterflies, and other insects—are critical to our ecosystems. Approximately 75% of flowering plants and 35% of the crops we consume depend on them to reproduce. In Massachusetts, native pollinators are essential to sustaining biodiversity and ensuring a healthy food system. Yet, these species face mounting threats from habitat loss, invasive plants, pesticide use, and climate change. Growing Wild offers residents a powerful way to help reverse this trend—one native plant at a time.
Whether using a Growing Wild starter kit or purchasing native plants independently, Massachusetts residents can help make an environmental impact by registering their gardens on the Massachusetts Pollinator Map, a growing visual record of native plantings across the state. The statewide pollinator map not only shows this collective progress but also reinforces Massachusetts’ leadership in sustainability and climate resilience.
“As green industry professionals, we’re proud to support residents in creating beautiful, healthy, and environmentally responsible landscapes,” said MNLA Executive Director Rena Sumner. “Local nurseries across Massachusetts are here to help people identify native plants and make pollinator-friendly choices that have a real impact.”
Since its launch, Growing Wild has distributed nearly 6,000 starter kits since 2021, totaling an estimated 6.5 acres of pollinator habitat across the state. To learn more, find educational materials, native plant guides, find a nursery, pledge your garden, and for a full list of participating nurseries visit the MNLA Growing Wild website, mnla.com/growingwild.
The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), an agency of the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs, oversees 450,000 acres of parks and forests, beaches, bike trails, watersheds, dams, and parkways. The agency’s mission is to protect, promote, and enhance our common wealth of natural, cultural, and recreational resources for the well-being of all. To learn more about DCR, our facilities, and our programs, please visit www.mass.gov/dcr. Contact us at mass.parks@mass.gov.
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Kingston explores creating Public Works Dept.
Justin Evans
Express correspondent
The Kingston Board of Selectmen is revisiting plans to establish a Department of Public Works (DPW) after a previous proposal fell short at town meeting. The board discussed holding public hearings and gathering feedback from town employees and residents before potentially bringing a revised proposal to a future town meeting.
During their May 20 meeting, board members agreed to schedule a public hearing for June 17 at 5:30 p.m., just before their regular meeting, to present information about the proposed DPW and collect community input.
“We need to have some public hearings or informational sessions,” said Board Chair Eric Crone. “People were saying they’re just hearing about it now. It’s a big thing that people were just hearing about and they want to hear more about it.”
The board previously attempted to establish a DPW but fell short of the necessary votes at town meeting. Board members believe providing more information and addressing concerns raised by residents and department staff could lead to a different outcome.
The previous proposal would combine the Streets, Trees, and Parks Department with the Water Department, Sewer Department, and Facilities under one Public Works Director. It fell just short at Town Meeting.
“We were close, but we had unanswered questions. So let’s try to get some answers to some of the questions we already have and have these discussions,” said Vice Chair Kim Emberg.
New board member Carl Pike expressed concern about bringing the proposal back too quickly.
“I’m not in favor of bringing this back in the fall Town Meeting. I never like having regular Town Meeting turn something down and then coming charging right back in at a Special Town Meeting,” Pike said.
However, other board members noted that many residents approached them after Town Meeting saying they would have changed their votes with more information.
The board also discussed meeting with town employees from affected departments to hear their concerns. Fire Chief Mark Douglass cautioned the board about putting employees in a difficult position if these meetings are recorded, as some work for political boards that oppose the DPW.
“You’ve got two departments that run with commissioners. They have a fairly dedicated group of employees,” Chief Douglass said. “To put those employees in a room and record them, you’re putting them in a very difficult spot.”
The board agreed to work with Town Administrator Keith Hickey to arrange appropriate meetings with staff.
In other business, Town Planner Valerie Massard presented four grant applications seeking board support. The applications include:
– A joint application with Duxbury for funding to complete engineering design for Exit 20 ramps and the Tarkiln Road/Big Y intersection
– A community planning grant to update the town’s master plan
– A brownfield redevelopment cleanup grant for the old fire station at 10 Maple Street
– A coastal resiliency grant for improvements to the wharf, parking, and harbormaster’s office at the town landing
“It’s grant season, so we’re hunting,” Massard said.
The board unanimously approved supporting all four grant applications.
Police Chief Brian Holmes requested $18,000 from the town’s opioid settlement funds for Plymouth County Outreach (PCO), a program that provides support services for people struggling with substance use disorders.
Representatives from PCO, including Director Vicky Butler and Hanover Police Chief Tim Kane, presented information about the program’s success in reducing overdose deaths in Plymouth County.
“Our program started with post-overdose follow-up. So we partner with law enforcement. Anytime someone overdoses within any of our Plymouth County communities, we’re going to go out as soon as possible,” Butler explained.
Chief Kane added, “Our officers go out there now and they respond to a scene somewhat of what I responded to in the early part of my career, and now they leave this family with a little bit of hope that they didn’t have otherwise.”
The board unanimously approved the $18,000 transfer from the opioid settlement fund, which currently has a balance of $177,000.
The board also approved:
– A request from the Agricultural Commission to use the townhouse gazebo for a produce sharing program
– A one-day liquor license for 42nd Brew Company for an event on June 7
– Setting October 28 as the date for a special town meeting
– Several donations to the Police Department and Council on Aging
– Seasonal employee appointments for the Recreation Department
Town Administrator Hickey reported that the town is switching from Blackboard Connect to Code Red for its emergency notification system, which will save more than $10,000 annually. He also noted that the town is working on software to allow residents to purchase transfer station permits online.
Hickey announced that Fire Captain Susan Hussey is retiring on July 10, and Assistant Treasurer Nick Derbes has resigned effective June 4.
A New Chapter Begins
Stephani Teran
Express staff
On Friday evening, May 30, Silver Lake Regional High School held graduation for the Class of 2025. It was an inspiring evening full of hope, encouragement, somber reflection, and optimism for the future. The evening began with the Select Choir Singers opening with the National Anthem followed by stirring renditions of Bob Dylan’s, “The Times They Are a-Changin’”, and Simon and Garfunkel’s, “Bridge Over Troubled Water.”
The first speaker was Senior Class President, Hannah Selig who began with the question, “What do I want to be when I grow up?” She spoke of having so many dreams and options up to this point but now, faced with her future beyond high school, she felt overwhelmed by the possibilities. Hannah found the more important question not to be, “What will your job be?” but, “What will you be?” She explained that the movie, The Sandlot, had been a poignant film in her life and how the main character was successful because of the kind of friend he was in the story rather than his athletic achievements. She left her peers with the stirring statement, “Dare to be more than what you plan on doing to pay the bills.” She stated that we can’t always control what happens to us but we can control who we are and how we treat others. She closed her remarks by saying, “I can’t wait to see what legends you become.”
Next was guest speaker, Mr. Daniel Correia, math teacher and Varsity Boys Soccer Coach. Mr. Correia gave an amusing account of experimenting with allowing AI to write his speech for him. He concluded that although it was somewhat proficient it lacked true substance. He explained that technology is often actually quite isolating and true connection can only be human. He also advised the students to keep in mind that the only constant in life is change. “In the face of our ever-changing world, continue to be adaptable and open minded as you travel along life’s journey.”
Silver Lake High School Salutatorian, Olivia Melisi was next with a thought-provoking speech about mental health and finding resilience through trials. She explained that in spite of her academic success and numerous prestigious achievements and endeavors, she was overcome with the anxiety of perfectionism and it made her ill. She explained that seeking treatment and recovery led her to miss a good deal of school the prior year but that she did the right thing in being brave and admitting to needing help. Olivia also spoke about the healing she found in becoming involved with drama and choir and reminded her classmates that mental and physical health is more important that academic accolades. “Life isn’t meant to be about chasing the perfect GPA or crafting the perfect resume. It’s about connection, emotion. I truly believe we are here to experience. To laugh, cry, grieve, and everything in between.”
The following speech was given by the Silver Lake High School Class of 2025 Valedictorian, Ellery Roche. Ellory continued to touch on the importance of a person’s character rather than their achievements. She stated that good grades are a good thing and something to strive for, but what matters is character. “Kindness is a virtue and it’s important to go the extra mile for others. Trust me, you will make a difference.”
After Ellery’s moving speech, Silver Lake Regional High School Principal Mrs. Michaela Gill shared a few remarks. She mentioned that trends come and go but you can leave a lasting mark as a person. She said that the Class of 2025 was a great example of not being what happens to you, but how you respond. She touched on looking after mental health first and foremost and being connected to others to stay strong when met with challenges. “I hope that every single one of you that leaves here today knows that your character isn’t defined by how flawless your journey looks. It’s shaped by how you rise, respond, and move forward -even on the messiest or, sorry Dr. Proulx, ‘shittiest’ of days.”
The closing remarks were given by Silver Lake School District Superintendent Dr. Jill Proulx. She stated that as she took the podium she was looking out on those who will shape the future. She expressed high hopes and expectations for the Class of 2025 not only because of the many academic feats and impressive student resumes and accomplishments, but because of their admirable choices as peers and community members. “You have the power to be change makers. Every single one of you can ignite that spark of transformation -in our schools, our communities, and beyond.”
Included in the speeches throughout the evening were reflections and remembrances of classmate, Maddie Straub, who tragically passed away last September. Her peers spoke of how much she was missed and reminisced about her perpetual smile, her laugh, and her loyalty as a friend. Fellow classmates said that Maddie never took life for granted. According to her friends and peers she was a natural born leader and had a huge impact on all who met her.
Following the evening’s speeches diplomas were handed out to 262 graduating seniors. Congratulations to the Silver Lake Regional High School Class of 2025. Your community has no doubt that you will find success in your futures and in life because you have learned well to prioritize human connection and character above all else. Here’s to a bright future for all Silver Lake High Seniors, Class of 2025.
Pecoraro honored with Alden Kindred “Speak for Thyself” award
Recognized across the South Shore for her extraordinary contributions to cultural tourism and nonprofit leadership, Michele Pecoraro of Plympton was recently honored at the 18th annual Speak for Thyself Awards, presented by The Alden Kindred of America. The event, held last month at the historic Jones River Trading Post in Kingston, celebrates women who exemplify the spirit of Mayflower passenger Priscilla Mullins Alden—those who lead with vision and advocacy to create lasting impact in their communities.
Pecoraro’s distinguished career in cultural tourism includes serving as the Executive Director of Plymouth 400, where she played a pivotal role in commemorating the 400th anniversary of the Mayflower voyage. Under her leadership, Plymouth 400 championed Indigenous representation, adapted commemorations amid the COVID-19 pandemic, and initiated Massachusetts 400, ensuring that the state’s historical milestones continue to be recognized.
Her dedication to tourism and history also extends to previous roles as Vice President at the Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce and Marketing Manager at Plimoth Patuxet Museums. Today, through her consulting firm Ideaz Ablaze, LLC, Pecoraro lends her expertise to organizations seeking innovative approaches in the cultural and nonprofit sectors.
Alongside fellow honorees Jennifer Cummings Hillery of Reading and Kimberly Phipps-Nichol of Houston, Texas, Pecoraro was celebrated for embodying the essence of determination and advocacy that the Speak for Thyself Awards highlight. The ceremony also recognized Duxbury High School senior Maeve Downes as this year’s “Aspiring Priscilla,” acknowledging her commitment to disability advocacy and sustainability.
The Alden Kindred of America, stewards of the Alden House Historic Site, invites visitors to explore the legacy of Mayflower passengers John and Priscilla Alden through guided tours and educational programs. To learn more about The Alden Kindred, please visit www.alden.org