Barnstable County Commissioners Acknowledge Housing Crisis, Reinforce Ongoing Regional Efforts
April 23, 2025 (BARNSTABLE, MA) – At today’s meeting, the Barnstable County Commissioners voted in favor of Assembly Resolution 2025-06 on Housing in Barnstable County, reviewed third quarter financial reports from the Finance Director and Register of Deeds, and approved letters to federal legislators in support of continued funding for AmeriCorps Cape Cod.
Commissioners Support Assembly’s Housing Resolution, Emphasize Progress and Coordination
Resolution 2025 06, On Housing in Barnstable County, was passed by the Assembly of Delegates on April 17, acknowledging the region’s housing crisis and expressing support for regional solutions. The Board of Regional Commissioners voted in favor of the resolution, welcoming the Assembly’s engagement and noting its alignment with efforts already underway through Barnstable County’s Department of Human Services.
“This resolution expresses broad support for a regional housing approach that our Human Services team has been advancing for some time,” said Commissioner Mark Forest. “The Shared Housing Services model was developed last year and has gained support through collaboration with town leaders and housing advocates.”
Commissioners reflected on how the resolution reinforces the County’s existing direction. “Look at all the housing units that have been constructed due to Barnstable County’s help and this Board’s commitment,” said Commissioner Sheila Lyons. “We’re focused on creating real inventory, not just more studies that sit on shelves.”
The Commissioners also reflected on the need to balance development with environmental stewardship. “This isn’t about being opposed to affordable housing,” said Commissioner Forest. “It’s about making smart, sustainable choices that respect the limits of our landscape while meeting the urgent needs of our residents.”
Recent investments, including $11 million in ARPA funds and support for local shelters, were highlighted as examples of action. Commissioners also pointed to the Shared Regional Housing Office pilot, which provides technical assistance to towns like Yarmouth working to convert underused land into affordable housing.
“The service Yarmouth received through this program has been outstanding,” said Commissioner Forest. “Communities across the Cape have expressed interest in continuing and expanding this model.”
The Board expressed appreciation for the leadership of former County Administrator Beth Albert and Human Services Director Joe Pacheco. “Thanks to their work, towns are stepping forward with renewed energy,” Commissioner Forest said. “This resolution helps solidify that momentum.”
In discussing next steps, the Board emphasized the importance of coordination in developing a working group. “We value collaboration and want to ensure that stakeholder engagement reflects shared priorities and follows existing County processes.”
“This is exactly the kind of regional initiative envisioned when the County Charter was created,” Commissioner Forest said. “We’re proud to be moving forward together.”
Register Meade Provides FY2025 Third Quarter Real Estate Update
Jack Meade, Register of Deeds, presented third quarter revenue results for FY2025, reporting that the Registry has met its budgeted revenue estimate of $13.5 million with several months remaining in the fiscal year. While overall real estate transaction volume continues to slow, a trend consistent with broader market conditions, revenue remains buoyed by high property values and several large commercial transactions. Register Meade noted that although March revenue came in slightly below the prior year, the Registry remains cautiously optimistic about spring activity and is closely monitoring April and May figures to assess whether recent dips are short term fluctuations or indicators of a broader market adjustment. He emphasized that strong pricing has helped offset lower transaction counts.
Finance Director Provides FY2025 Third Quarter Financial Update
Finance Director Carol Coppola presented the County’s financial results through March 31, 2025, noting that overall fiscal performance remains strong and stable. The County is managing $75.8 million across 160 active funds, including 80 grants totaling $55.5 million. Revenues and expenditures in the General Fund are tracking within expected ranges, with interest income significantly outperforming projections, reaching $847,000 year to date against a $250,000 budget. Ms. Coppola emphasized that while some revenue streams, such as the Registry of Deeds, are slightly under budget, others including state reimbursements and investment earnings are bolstering overall results. She also noted that most departments remain under budget and praised the collaborative efforts between Finance and department leaders. Additionally, she discussed the establishment of a $13.9 million Revenue Stabilization Fund and ongoing efforts to adopt long term financial forecasting tools, including ratio analysis and benchmarking. Commissioners expressed appreciation for the transparency and depth of the financial update, noting that strong fiscal management supports confidence in the County’s regional leadership.
Commissioners Urge Federal Support for AmeriCorps Cape Cod
Today the Barnstable County Commissioners also unanimously voted to send letters to U.S. Senators Edward Markey and Elizabeth Warren and Congressman Bill Keating in support of continued funding for AmeriCorps Cape Cod. The Commissioners emphasized the program’s vital contributions to the region, including environmental restoration, disaster preparedness, and community service projects across all 15 towns. The letters highlight both the economic and civic value of AmeriCorps members and urge federal leaders to protect this long-standing partnership that delivers direct, measurable benefits to Cape Cod communities.
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 (508) 375-6896 sonja.sheasley@capecod.gov
