Barnstable County Commissioners Discuss FY26 Budget Priorities and Review Children’s Behavioral Health Needs Assessment Report
November 13, 2024 (Barnstable, MA) — The Barnstable County Board of Regional Commissioners met today and received an overview of the Fiscal Year 2026 budget priorities and process from County Administrator Michael Dutton. Mr. Dutton highlighted a new format for this year’s budget plan, designed per Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) guidelines to enhance clarity and transparency. The goal is to make the budget accessible while addressing both immediate and long-term needs of the community.
Mr. Dutton presented the following strategic priorities which will shape the FY26 budget:
- Structurally Balanced Budget: Achieving a balanced budget without tapping into reserves is the top priority for FY26. Dutton acknowledged the County’s recent successes, including an upgraded bond rating from Standard & Poor’s, credited to conservative financial practices. Given the variability of revenue sources like the Registry of Deeds, the County aims to strengthen its policies for reserve usage to mitigate risks during economic downturns.
- Effective Governance: The County is focused on enhancing operational efficiency, particularly in light of an upcoming Charter Review. Mr. Dutton emphasized the importance of interdepartmental collaboration and a careful approach to filling vacancies with well-qualified candidates. Additionally, the County plans to continue pursuing grant funding, a critical yet unstable revenue source that supports numerous initiatives.
- Water Quality: Addressing Cape Cod’s water issues, including drinking water safety and wastewater treatment, remains a critical priority. Mr. Dutton detailed ongoing projects, such as PFAS contamination mitigation at the former fire training facility and innovative septic system developments. He underscored the importance of sustained investment in water quality initiatives to protect public health and the environment across the region.
- Housing: Acknowledging the severe housing challenges on Cape Cod, Mr. Dutton outlined a comprehensive approach to expanding housing options. This includes exploring adaptive reuse of County properties and aligning efforts with the Cape Cod Commission’s regional housing strategy.
Mr. Dutton also discussed key budget considerations, including ongoing capital investments which will be informed by a facilities assessment (presently underway), the need for careful review of departmental staffing, and the financial pressures posed by ongoing liabilities like PFAS contamination.
“Michael’s presentation effectively highlights the fiscal realities we face and the proactive steps we’re taking to maintain a balanced budget while addressing critical regional issues,” said Commissioner Mark Forest. “From water quality to housing, these strategic priorities demonstrate our commitment to responsible governance and tackling the pressing challenges that impact the quality of life for all Cape Cod residents.”
Other meeting agenda items included the following:
Presentation on the Children’s Behavioral Health Baseline Needs Assessment
Mandi Speakman, Deputy Director of the Human Services Department, introduced the Children’s Behavioral Health Baseline Needs Assessment report with consultants from Health Resources in Action (HRiA). The Assessment identified critical youth behavioral health concerns in the region.
The Children’s Behavioral Health Baseline Needs Assessment, presented by Health Resources in Action (HRiA) was made possible by ARPA funding and conducted from June 2023 to August 2024. The findings revealed rising behavioral health issues among youth and identified service gaps across Barnstable County. The assessment, presented by HRiA’s Lisa Arsenault and Amy Flynn, with Mandi Speakman, Deputy Director of Human Services and consultant Barbara Dominic in attendance, aimed to document the needs of young people across the County’s four regions of Cape Cod.
Key findings highlighted increasing rates of anxiety and depression, with symptoms emerging at younger ages. Despite 90% of parents seeking care for their children, 25% were unable to access services, and half experienced only partial success. The report pointed to insufficient school-based mental health support and extensive waitlists for after-school programs, indicating a need for expanded recreational and community-based opportunities. Recommendations included creating an online resource registry, increasing school-based counselors, and addressing language and cultural barriers. The full presentation and detailed findings are available to review here.
Update from Massachusetts Alternative Septic System Test Center (MASSTC)
Brian Baumgaertel, MASSTC Director and Senior Environmental Specialist. updated the Commissioners on key developments at MASSTC. The AquaFund loan program received a $13 million boost, expanding its support for growing septic projects across Cape Cod. Additionally, a $134,300 contract was awarded to Bayside Electrical Contractors for a crucial electrical upgrade, completing the setup of a new facility focused on innovative waste disposal and water reuse demonstrations. Mr. Baumgaertel shared plans to enhance public education on septic system impacts and solutions and launch workforce training programs at the test center. These initiatives aim to equip young professionals, career changers, and transitioning military personnel with the skills needed to operate and maintain on-site septic systems and wastewater treatment facilities, addressing a critical workforce gap in the region.
Barnstable County Mourns the Loss of Mary Pat Flynn, Former County Commissioner and Respected Public Servant
Vice Chair Sheila Lyons, speaking on behalf of the Board of Regional Commissioners, expressed condolences on the passing of Mary Pat Flynn, a dedicated public servant who spent over 30 years serving Falmouth and Barnstable County. Flynn, who passed away on November 8 at the age of 90, began as a Falmouth Town Meeting member in 1988, served 18 years on the Falmouth Select Board, and was later elected as a Barnstable County Commissioner, a role she held with distinction for 12 years until her retirement in 2020. Vice Chair Lyons remarked, “Mary Pat Flynn’s dedication to public service has left a lasting impact on Falmouth, Barnstable County, and the broader Cape Cod community. Her commitment and leadership extended well beyond her official roles, and she was a respected figure throughout her career. We should all take her legacy as an example for ourselves.”
For the full list of actions taken at the meeting, please refer to the complete agenda here.
ABOUT BARNSTABLE COUNTY REGIONAL GOVERNMENT OF CAPE COD: Barnstable County provides exemplary government functions and services to keep our community healthy and safe, promote sustainable growth, and offers a proactive, open government that enhances the quality of life for the citizens of Barnstable County. Learn more at www.capecod.gov.
MEDIA CONTACT: Sonja Sheasley, Communications Coordinator Sonja.sheasley@capecod.gov | 508-375-6896
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