Plymouth County Delivers $977K ARPA Check to Hanson
Town receives final ARPA funds for ambulance, culverts, and food pantry; Auto Express denied license renewal over repeated violations
HANSON - December 10 - The Hanson Select Board accepted a check for $977,095.18 from Plymouth County Commissioner Jared Valanzola during its Dec. 10 meeting. The funds, part of a program set to sunset on Dec. 31, will support various town projects including ambulance purchase, culvert replacement, and food pantry assistance.
"It's kind of hard to believe it is the season of giving, and we have actually pretty much come to the end of this program," Valanzola said. He praised the town's efficiency in securing funds, noting Hanson's proactive approach among the county's 27 member communities.
The board expressed gratitude for the county's low administrative costs, which Valanzola reported at 1.25 percent. "That has meant more money for Hanson and more money for other communities," he said.
In a separate action, the board voted to deny the renewal of Auto Express's Class II license due to consistent violations of vehicle capacity limits. The decision came after multiple warnings and concerns raised by town officials about safety and compliance issues.
"Last time I counted over there, he had, like, 53," said Building Inspector Kerry Glass, referring to the number of vehicles on the property. The business is only allowed 20 vehicles.
Board members noted the persistent nature of the violations, with Chair Laura FitzGerald-Kemmett stating, "Ever since I've been on the board, that location has been a problem. Like, I literally don't remember one year when that location has not been a problem consistently."
The board also addressed staffing matters, including the potential resignation of Veterans Agent Joseph Gumbakis. After discussion, the board empowered the town administrator to retain Gumbakis if he chooses to revoke his resignation.
"We really do need Joe," said member David George. "You might not need him, and a lot of other people in town might not need him, but people like me and a lot of other veterans in the town, I'm not going to Halifax, I'm not going to Rockland, I'm not going to some other town to ask for benefits as a veteran."
Town Administrator Lisa Green reported progress on hiring an IT Director, with interviews scheduled for the week. "We have three interviews tomorrow and one interview on Friday," Green said. "Hopefully I hope to bring a candidate or two forward before the board January 14th as consideration."
The board also approved town hall holiday hours, deciding to close at noon on both Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve. "I think it's important that everybody have time with their family and have some time off," said FitzGerald-Kemmett.
Other business included:
- Approval of one-day liquor licenses for upcoming events
- Discussion of a small business summit planned for Jan. 29 at Camp Kiwanee
- Updates on various committee activities
Green also reported on submitting applications for additional Plymouth County funds, including $25,532 for AED replacements for the fire department and $14,583 for Council on Aging reimbursements.
The meeting concluded with the board entering executive session to discuss personnel matters and review executive session minutes.
The next Select Board meeting is scheduled for Jan. 14.