Publication date: October 23, 2024
Prioritize investments in pond protection
BARNSTABLE, Mass. (October 23, 2024) – Barnstable County announced its financial results for the first quarter of fiscal year 2025 (FY25), highlighting its continued financial stability and sound management. As of September 30, 2024, the County Treasurer’s Office manages approximately $80 million in public funds across 146 different funds, including a total of $56.5 million in federal, state, and local grants.
Total budgeted revenues for FY25 were $24.3 million, with actual revenues reported at $7.8 million, reflecting a strong start to the fiscal year. Spending is on track, with $8.6 million of the $24.3 million budget spent. The county’s general fund continues to show reliable performance, with $4.5 million in revenue from key departments such as deed registration. In addition, the Cape Cod Commission, which is responsible for regional planning, spent $1.8 million, and the Dredging Enterprise Fund, which supports waterway maintenance, effectively managed spending $650,000. Through careful budget oversight, Barnstable County continues to maintain operations and services while maintaining fiscal health.
In addition to these accomplishments, Barnstable County recently received two significant recognitions that further demonstrate its strong financial position. This week, the County received a Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Government Financial Officers Association (GFOA) for its 2023 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report. In September 2024, S&P Global Ratings upgraded the county’s general obligation bond rating to AA+, reflecting improved financial management, well-integrated financial policies, and low debt burden.
“Our FY25 financial results, along with our recent GFOA designation and bond rating upgrade, demonstrate our commitment to responsible financial management and transparency. We continue to provide essential services to our communities. while continuing to ensure the long-term financial health of the county,” said Barnstable County Finance Director Carol Coppola.
Cape Cod Commission releases update on Cape Cod Freshwater Initiative
Erin Perry and Jessica Rempel of the Cape Cod Commission provide an update on the Cape Cod Freshwater Initiative, which aims to protect and improve the health of the region’s ponds, important ecosystems that support biodiversity and recreational activities. Announced. This effort, which has included more than 500 visits to 50 ponds and 74,000 data points collected through the Regional Pond Monitoring Program, is powered by collaboration with the Conservation Council of Cape Cod (APCC) for ongoing monitoring efforts. The project includes a state-of-the-art remote sensing project that utilizes satellite technology to collect continuous data on water quality and environmental change and is funded by a grant.
Current tools like the Cape Cod Pond and Lake Atlas provide detailed profiles and viewers for pond restoration projects and encourage community participation in local conservation efforts. Future developments such as a comprehensive strategic database and pond water quality data portal will greatly enhance access to critical information and support ecosystem restoration efforts. The initiative also promotes freshwater pond buffer guidance and provides customized planting plans and native plant lists to homeowners and municipalities to promote biodiversity and maintain ecosystem health. Provide. For more information, visit www.capecodcommission.org/freshwater.
Barnstable County Commissioners approve acquisition of advanced FlowCam technology to enhance water quality monitoring
Barnstable County Commissioners approved the purchase of advanced FlowCam technology for the Water Quality Laboratory for a total cost of $142,655. This state-of-the-art equipment will significantly increase the county’s ability to monitor cyanobacteria in freshwater ponds, allowing for more accurate analysis and better protection of critical water resources. Water Quality Institute Director Dan White explained that once calibrated, the FlowCam can measure cell counts in just five minutes, a significant improvement over traditional methods that take several hours. This acquisition will significantly improve the efficiency of pond monitoring, strengthen the county’s cyanotoxin monitoring program, and further protect public health.
Commissioners approve $68,796 grant for SNEP Climate Resilience and Regional Cooperation Project
The County Commission, through the Cape Cod Commission, approved a $68,796 grant grant agreement between the University of Southern Maine and Barnstable County for the SNEP project. The five-year grant will support “Building Local Capacity” projects that promote climate change resilience through training, technical assistance, and regional cooperation. Tim Passakanis of the Cape Cod Commission said the funding is part of EPA’s SNEP technical assistance network, which supports communities in southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island. This includes regional capital planning and ongoing stormwater mapping efforts. A recent webinar on stormwater mapping will be available soon on the Cape Cod Commission website.
Adoption of the “Age and Dementia Friendly Cape Cod Resolution” proposed by the Department of Human Services
The Barnstable County Regional Commission signed the Age- and Dementia-Friendly Cape Cod Resolution, strengthening the county’s commitment to healthy aging and inclusive communities. The resolution, proposed by the Department of Human Services, supports the county’s application to the AARP Network of Age-Friendly Communities, which provides access to resources to improve services for seniors and people with dementia. . The county, where 55% of its population is age 50 or older, is taking steps to meet the needs of its aging population. For more information, see Age and Dementia Friendly Cape Cod Resolution – Barnstable County.
At the conclusion of today’s meeting, on behalf of the Board of Directors, Vice Chair Sheila Lyons wished the retired former Program Director of the U.S. Army Cape Cod, Katherine Garofoli, and thanked her for her valuable contributions to the program’s success. He expressed his gratitude.
Commissioner Lyons acknowledged the recent passing of former Barnstable County Governor Mark Zielinski, who served from 1994 until his retirement in 2015. He expressed his condolences to the family and said his legacy and impact on the community will be fondly remembered.
About Barnstable County Regional Government on Cape Cod: Barnstable County was established in 1685 and serves as the local government for 15 towns on Cape Cod. We provide solutions to local challenges, provide essential services, promote population health, safety, economic vitality and environmental protection, and improve the quality of life across the Cape. For more information, please visit www.capecod.gov.
Media Contact: Sonja Sheasley, Communications Coordinator Sonja.sheasley@capecod.gov | 508-375-6896
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