Plympton Achieves 35% Energy Reduction Through Green Communities Program
Town to Implement Regular Updates on Major Projects, Including Public Water Supply Initiative
PLYMPTON, MA - October 21 - Plympton has successfully reduced its energy use in municipal buildings by 35% since 2011 through participation in the Green Communities Program, according to a recent update presented to the Board of Selectmen.
Paul Umano, a representative from the Old Colony Planning Council, delivered the report during the Oct. 21 meeting, highlighting the town's progress in meeting the program's five criteria.
"You guys are doing a great job in terms of your energy use in your buildings as well as your street and traffic lights," Umano said. He noted that the only area needing improvement was municipal vehicles, where energy use has increased in recent years.
The town has implemented several energy conservation measures, including high-efficiency transformers at elementary schools, heat pumps at the fire department, and LED lighting projects at the highway department.
Plympton recently received a Green Communities grant for heat pump installation at the public library, continuing its commitment to energy efficiency.
"That's an amazing job. Thank you for working with Liz and the team on that," Umano said, referring to the grant.
The Board of Selectmen discussed implementing regular updates from the Town Properties Committee on ongoing projects, including the public water supply initiative. This move aims to improve transparency and oversight of significant town developments.
Town Administrator Liz Dennehy emphasized the importance of these updates, stating, "I do think it would be helpful going forward if maybe we had the Town Properties Committee with a little more regularity, maybe, like reporting."
The board agreed to have the committee provide monthly updates, potentially including project managers and consultants via video conferencing.
In other business, the board appointed Alan Wheelock as a Zoning Board of Appeals alternate, effective Oct. 21, 2024, through June 30, 2027. Board member Mark Russo praised the appointment, saying, "I think he's the exact right guy for that position. And big decisions sometimes come out of ZBA, and the more confidence we have in the people on that."
The board also addressed the town's American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. Dennehy reported that of the original allocation, approximately $230,000 remains available. These funds are being considered for the new well and water infrastructure project behind the highway barn.
"Obviously, any funds that we're able to put towards that project coming from the county, it's less coming out of what the town allocated towards figuring out the infrastructure," Dennehy explained.
The board emphasized the importance of capturing the remaining ARPA funds for the project, which is part of a larger initiative that includes a new fire station.
In correspondence, the board received a heartfelt letter from the family of Harry L. Weichel Jr., thanking the town for its support and kindness following his passing.
The board also reviewed and approved preliminary comments for a proposed 40B development off Spring Street. These comments will be submitted to Mass Housing and posted on the town's website for public access.
The meeting concluded with board members sharing "raves," including praise for the recent trunk-or-treat event at the elementary school and the compassion and competence of emergency responders during a recent medical emergency.