Facing a persistent $2 million fiscal gap and skyrocketing premiums, Town Administrator Doug Lapp presented an $85.3 million general fund operating budget for the upcoming fiscal year that hinges on a dramatic shift in municipal health insurance. During Tuesday’s Select Board meeting, Lapp revealed that the town is moving away from its current carrier, Blue Cross Blue Shield, to a different provider in a necessary but difficult attempt to stabilize the town's finances. We've taken dramatic action to change our healthcare insurance plan away from Blue Cross to a different carrier, Lapp explained. It's going to be very disruptive for all of our employees, but we had to take action to balance the budget. This move follows months of warnings regarding a 19.7% spike in insurance costs and a town-wide hiring freeze implemented earlier this year.

The budget discussion was part of a broader review of the 35 articles slated for the upcoming Town Meeting warrant. Among the highlights is Article 21, which proposes the acquisition of Camp Alice Carlton. Lapp noted this purchase would essentially double the protected area of the recently acquired McCarthy Farm open space. Additionally, the board reviewed Article 32, a proposal to adopt state laws allowing the town to convert existing beer and wine licenses to all-alcohol pouring licenses at its discretion. In response to a query from John Ellard, Jr. regarding the scope of the change, Lapp clarified that the provision applies only to restaurants and bars, not package stores.

The Select Board also took a firm stance against pending state legislation that would restrict the town’s ability to mark driver's licenses for non-payment of motor vehicle excise taxes. Lapp warned that losing this enforcement mechanism would be extremely detrimental to local collections. Member John Ellard, Jr. voiced strong support for a formal letter of opposition to state legislators, stating, I 100% agree that we should keep the heat on Beacon Hill to make sure they don't pass that. Motion Made by S. O'Donnell for the select board to adopt the letter language and authorize the chair to sign on behalf of the board. Motion Passed (4-0).

In a brighter turn for the evening, Recreation Director Jean Chiasson presented plans for Mental Health Awareness Month in May, noting the program’s growth since its inception during the pandemic. Chiasson highlighted the upcoming community resource fair on May 7 and a luminary walk along the rail trail. The department was recently honored as Agency of the Year by the Massachusetts Park and Recreation Association, prompting Chair Michael O'Loughlin to suggest they be referred to as the award-winning department moving forward. Member Tiffanie Needham offered her praise, telling Chiasson, A big huge congratulations in person... we are so fortunate for your time, your talent, and your dedication to this town. Member Steven O'Donnell added, You make it very easy to support the rec department. I wholeheartedly thank you for working to break the stigma.

Community events also dominated the licensing agenda, including the return of the popular Adult Egg Hunt at Veterans Memorial Stadium. Olivia from the Recreation Department described the challenge of hunting in the dark, noting there will be over 3,000 eggs spread out on the field... we shut the lights off when you hunt for the black eggs in the field. Motion Made by J. Ellard to approve the one-day liquor license for the Adult Egg Hunt. Motion Passed (4-0). The board also granted licenses for a Rockland Baseball and Softball field day and a benefit show at 4th Floors for the Hope Floats Healing and Wellness Center. Applicant Rob noted that the organization is a bereavement and educational center for adults, children, teens, and their families who are grieving. Motion Made by J. Ellard to approve the one-day liquor license for 4th Floors. Motion Passed (4-0). For the baseball event, O’Loughlin ensured the beer garden would be fenced off and separated from youth activities before the vote. Motion Made by J. Ellard to approve the one-day liquor license for Player Sports Bar at the Rockland Baseball/Softball event. Motion Passed (4-0).

As the meeting concluded, members reminded residents of the annual town election on Saturday, April 11. Steven O'Donnell noted that the new Town Charter, which grants the Town Administrator more authority over department head appointments, is now the law of the land in Rockland. Chair O'Loughlin emphasized the importance of the ballot regardless of contested races. Regardless of the fact that people aren't on the ballot and there's not a lot of opposed races, it is very important that people come out and vote... this is your opportunity, O'Loughlin said.