Commissioners Approve $300K in License Plate Grant Awards to Support Economic and Community Development
County Administrator Outlines Budget Structure Improvements to Foster Better Understanding Among Towns and Stakeholders
JANUARY 28, 2025 (BARNSTABLE, MA) – The Barnstable County Commissioners have approved $300,000 in License Plate Grant awards recommended by the Barnstable County Economic Development Council (BCEDC). These grants, funded by revenue from Cape Cod and Islands specialty license plates, will support eight organizations working on key regional priorities such as broadband expansion, housing incentives, workforce development, small business support, and arts sector growth.
The BCEDC, an advisory board to the Commissioners, guides economic development policy to improve the quality of life for residents, create year-round employment opportunities, and protect Cape Cod’s natural and built assets. The License Plate Grant program is a key initiative overseen by the BCEDC to fund projects that align with the Cape Cod Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS). Kristy Senatori, Executive Director of the Cape Cod Commission, presented the recommendations on behalf of the BCEDC, emphasizing that the selected projects reflect the region’s commitment to fostering economic resiliency and enhancing community life.
The approved grants include $70,000 each to the Housing Assistance Corporation, Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe, and the Association to Preserve Cape Cod. Additional funding was awarded to Cape Cod Community College ($25,000), Cape Cod Children’s Place ($20,000), and $15,000 each to Love Live Local, EforAll Cape Cod, and the Arts Foundation of Cape Cod.
Chair Sheila Lyons highlighted the program’s value, stating, “This program shines a spotlight on these important efforts, supporting smaller organizations and startups that often struggle to access resources and helping to make meaningful improvements to life on Cape Cod.”
For more details about the License Plate Grant program and the awarded projects, the Cape Cod Commission’s detailed press release can be accessed here: https://www.capecod.gov/LicensePlateGrants2025.
FY26 Budget Discussion: Enhancing Transparency and Strategic Planning for Barnstable County
County Administrator Michael Dutton proposed several changes to improve Barnstable County’s budget process, focusing on transparency, efficiency, and long-term fiscal responsibility. One of his key recommendations was to create a fourth ordinance specifically for one-time expenses, in addition to the existing three ordinances for the General Fund, Dredge Enterprise, and the Cape Cod Commission’s budget. This approach, he explained, would clarify the operating budget and ensure a clearer distinction between recurring operational costs and one-time expenditures.
Mr. Dutton also emphasized the need to adopt replacement schedules for capital assets like vehicles and equipment, thus allowing the County to allocate funds gradually over time rather than facing unexpected large expenses. Highlighting the importance of aligning with municipal best practices, Mr. Dutton advocated for maintaining stabilization funds and using retained revenue strategically, noting that “anything that adds transparency to the budget and allows people to understand what we’re spending year to year on the same services is good.”
The County Commissioners voiced strong support for the proposals, recognizing the benefits of streamlining the budget and enhancing public understanding. Vice Chair Mark Forest remarked, “Your proposal streamlines things, and it makes it easier to make real comparisons.” The discussion also included ideas for engaging towns to ensure they understand the financial benefits they receive from County programs, with the Commissioners agreeing that reintroducing the County’s role and services to towns would strengthen relationships and clarify the value provided.
Commissioners Weigh Decision on Charter Review Committee Designee
The Barnstable County Commissioners engaged in a thoughtful discussion regarding their role in the Assembly of Delegates’ Charter Review Committee and the option to designate a representative. They decided to delay a final decision until their next meeting.
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 offer 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 | (508) 375-6896 | sonja.sheasley@capecod.gov
