Barnstable County Commissioners Endorse Suicide Prevention Efforts, Authorize Funding to AmeriCorps Cape Cod, and Review ARPA Digitization Project
At their meeting this morning, the Barnstable County Board of Regional Commissioners recognized Suicide Prevention Month with a proclamation and discussed expanding resources for the Cape and Islands Suicide Prevention Coalition. The Commissioners approved a $499,999 grant for the 2025 AmeriCorps Cape Cod Service Year and received an update on the Barnstable County Digitization Project funded by ARPA, which aims to preserve over 3 million historical documents.
Recognition of Suicide Prevention Month and Expanded Coalition Resources
During the Commissioners’ meeting, Mandi Speakman, Deputy Director of the Barnstable County Department of Human Services, provided an update on the Cape and Islands Suicide Prevention Coalition (CISPC) in recognition of Suicide Prevention Month. The coalition’s mission is to help give Cape Cod and Island communities the necessary information and tools to raise awareness, promote education, and increase action to reduce suicides. In FY 24, CISPC expanded its membership to 75 individuals representing Cape Cod, Nantucket, and Martha’s Vineyard. The Barnstable County Department of Human Services has supported key initiatives, including the redesign of the CISPC brochure, the launch of a more user-friendly website (www.cispc.net), and the expansion of training opportunities through a partnership with the Center for Corporate and Professional Education at Cape Cod Community College.
In conjunction with this update, the commissioners signed a proclamation declaring September as National Suicide Prevention & Action Month in Barnstable County, highlighting the importance of raising awareness, supporting mental health, and taking proactive measures to prevent suicide.
Interim Capital Projects Update
Also at today’s Barnstable County Commissioners’ meeting, Paul Ruszala, P.E., the Assets and Infrastructure Manager, provided updates on two critical preliminary design projects. The first project is the HVAC replacement at the Orleans Second District Courthouse, with a design contract valued at $102,900 awarded to Habeeb & Associates Architects, and this project is expected to conclude by June 30, 2025. The second project focuses on the exterior restoration of the Barnstable Superior Courthouse, with a preliminary design and evaluation contract worth $155,200 granted to Gale Associates, Inc., with completion slated for June 30, 2026. Both projects are vital for preserving and modernizing the county’s infrastructure, ensuring these historic buildings meet current standards.
Commissioners Authorize $499,999 Grant for 2025 AmeriCorps Cape Cod Service Year
The Barnstable County Commissioners authorized a grant agreement between the Massachusetts Service Alliance and Barnstable County, acting through AmeriCorps Cape Cod and the Cooperative Extension. The grant, totaling $499,999.00, will fund the 2025 AmeriCorps Cape Cod Service Year, which runs from August 15, 2024, through August 14, 2025. Katherine Garofoli, the AmeriCorps Cape Cod Program Manager, was present to discuss the details of this grant, highlighting its significance in continuing the valuable work AmeriCorps Cape Cod does in the community. This grant underscores the ongoing collaboration between the Massachusetts Service Alliance and Barnstable County in supporting community service initiatives across the region.
Digitization Project Update
Vaira Harik, Assistant County Administrator, presented an update on the Barnstable County Digitization Project. This initiative will put in place an implementation plan to digitize approximately 3.25 million pages of County documents, and the work will begin with funding of $1,148,000 from the ARPA grant. Many documents date back to the 1700s and 1800s. Digitization of County documents is the first step in making them available to and searchable by the public, as appropriate. The project is on a tight timeline, with vendor selection expected by September 30, 2024, and completion by December 31, 2026.
Commissioners’ Decision on Ordinance 21 Following Legal Review
The Commissioners moved to disapprove Ordinance 21 from the Assembly of Delegates, which proposed establishing a new part-time Assistant Clerk position to serve the Assembly. After careful consultation with our legal counsel, it has been determined that while the Assembly of Delegates may adjust funding for staff positions through the budgetary process, it does not possess the authority to independently create a new staff position without adhering to the established procedures set forth by the Board of Regional Commissioners.
Commissioners Endorse New Communications Handbook
Today, Sonja Sheasley, Communication Coordinator at the Commissioners’ Office, presented the new Barnstable County Communications Handbook—a vital guide designed to ensure clear and consistent messaging across the County’s platforms. Developed by the Communications Team, the Handbook supports the County’s mission to address the needs of Cape Cod’s 15 towns. The Commissioners voted unanimously to adopt and endorse this document, which will be provided to all employees during onboarding and updated regularly.
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.
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