Commissioners Hear Measles Preparedness Update, Review Human Rights Trends on Cape Cod, and Back MA Supreme Judicial Court Amicus Brief
April 9, 2025 (BARNSTABLE, MA) – At their 10:00 AM meeting today, the Barnstable County Commissioners received an update from the Health Department on measles cases in the U.S., a report from the Barnstable County Human Rights Advisory Commission which highlighted expanded outreach, youth programming, and a rise in discrimination cases over the past year, and supported the submission of an amicus brief regarding a MA Supreme Judicial Court case on land rights.
County Health Officials Address National Measles Concerns
This is National Public Health Awareness Week, and the Barnstable County Department of Health and Environment provided a timely update on the rise in measles cases nationwide and the County’s proactive efforts to protect residents. Director Jay Gardiner and contract epidemiologist Lea Hamner emphasized the importance of vaccination, early detection, and strong community partnerships.
Although no cases have been reported in Massachusetts to-date, more than 600 measles cases have been confirmed across 22 states since January. Most have occurred among unvaccinated individuals. Hamner explained that measles is one of the most contagious viruses and can linger in the air for up to two hours. “Measles is not just a rash. It can lead to pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death,” she said. “The best protection is prevention. Two doses of the MMR vaccine offer lifelong immunity for most people.”
While Massachusetts maintains a strong vaccination rate above 95 percent, local data shows Barnstable County’s kindergarten coverage is slightly below that threshold at 93.9 percent. Health officials are working closely with schools, healthcare providers, and local coalitions to identify under-vaccinated communities and increase vaccine confidence.
The Department has launched a new measles information hub at capecod.gov/measles, has planned community vaccination clinics, and is coordinating regional preparedness through long-standing partnerships.
“Our health is not a passive endeavor,” said Gardiner. “It starts here with good information, strong collaboration, and a commitment to protecting our neighbors, especially the most vulnerable.”
Residents are encouraged to verify their immunization status and contact the County for more information at 774-330-3001 or care@capecod.gov.
2024 Human Rights Year in Review Presented
Leslie Dominguez-Santos, Barnstable County’s Human Rights Coordinator, presented the 2024 Year in Review for the County’s Human Rights Advisory Commission. She was joined by Commissioners Rick Draper and Daniel Beltran, who spoke about their work on the Commission’s Intake Committee and the importance of having a trusted resource for residents facing discrimination.
The presentation highlighted the Commission’s expanding community engagement, including outreach events across the region, the annual Human Rights Day celebration, and the ongoing success of the Human Rights Academy, which brings together high school students to explore themes such as inclusion, health, and well-being in schools.
Dominguez-Santos presented data from the Commission’s intake and referral system, noting that 45 individuals contacted the office in 2024 to report possible discrimination and/or to request assistance–an average of about one report week. Nearly two-thirds of those cases involved racial discrimination, with additional reports linked to national origin and religion. She and Draper emphasized that while the numbers reflect concerning trends, they also suggest that more people are becoming aware of the Commission’s presence and are willing to seek help. “One of the reasons our intakes have increased is that people are beginning to realize we’re here” Draper said.
The County Commissioners expressed strong support for the Human Rights Advisory Commission’s mission. “Our Human Rights Advisory Commission is probably needed now more than almost any other time,” said Commissioner Mark Forest. “We created it as a resource so those who are in fear of their rights being compromised or abused have a place to find support and information.”
Commissioners Consider Support for Supreme Judicial Court Case
The Barnstable County Commissioners voted to support the filing of an amicus brief, a “friend of the court” document submitted by non-parties to provide additional perspective, in the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court case Town of Concord v. Rasmussen, Harvard College et al (SJC-13721). The case centers on whether the public retains access rights to roads that were officially discontinued by county governments, some nearly a century ago. The outcome could have far-reaching implications across the Commonwealth, particularly for municipalities and property owners who believed those roads were no longer public and have since preserved, developed, or relied on the land as private.
County Administrator Michael Dutton, attorney Gwen Nolan King, and North Andover Town Counsel Christine O’Connor presented the case and its implications. “The consequences would be significant,” said King. “Title examiners and surveyors would have a very hard time figuring out whether public rights remain on these ways.” Commissioner Mark Forest supported the County’s involvement, stating, “If the wrong side prevails, it opens the door to all sorts of complications with respect to the management of conservation land and public lands. Quite frankly, it opens a Pandora’s box of problems.” The Board voted unanimously to support the brief.
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.
