The Rockland Select Board moved to modernize town operations and restore a long-standing local tradition during its October 21 meeting, unanimously adopting a new municipal policy for artificial intelligence while green-lighting the return of a student-athlete fundraiser. The session, which combined high-tech governance with deep-rooted community legacy, also saw the promotion of a lifelong resident within the Fire Department.

The meeting opened with a celebratory tone as Chief Duffy introduced Patrick Sammon for promotion to the rank of Lieutenant. Highlighting Sammon’s deep ties to the community, Duffy noted that the new lieutenant joined the department in 2013 and is the son of retired Fire Chief Michael Sammon. Chair Michael O'Loughlin reflected on the family’s impact on local public safety, remarking, I saw your name come across the desk. First thing I said was, 'Another Sammon? Are you kidding me?' But with that being said, you're extremely deserving. It's been a tradition entrenched in this town to have a Sammon in a leadership role. Following the swearing-in by Christine Campanella of the Town Clerk’s office, Sammon’s wife, Ashlyn, pinned his new collar pins before his father presented his badge.

Shifting from tradition to technology, IT Director Gino Felino presented the Town of Rockland Artificial Intelligence Use Policy, a document designed to establish guardrails for municipal staff using emerging tech. Felino explained that the policy aims to enhance efficiency while ensuring human oversight and the protection of sensitive data. AI initiatives will incorporate human oversight, comply with public transparency laws and adhere to data protection principles, Felino said, noting that personally identifiable information like Social Security numbers is strictly prohibited from AI input. Motion Made by a board member to adopt the Town of Rockland Artificial Intelligence Use Policy. Motion Passed (5-0).

Vice Chair Lori Childs questioned the practical enforcement of these new rules, asking, The prohibited data section—what if prohibited data somehow gets through the system? Is there any accountability? Felino noted the policy aligns with national standards to mitigate such risks. Town Administrator Doug Lapp praised Felino’s efforts as a one-person department supporting 200 users, noting that the town’s improved technical posture recently allowed it to secure essential cybersecurity insurance. Felino also shared that the town has secured $55,000 in grants for data loss prevention and incident response planning.

The board also voted to revive a tradition for Rockland High School (RHS) student-athletes. Athletic Director Dan Kimble requested the return of the toll booth fundraiser, scheduled for November 1. Kimble explained the event is modeled after the former Dollars for Scholars program that ran for decades. I'm just here to seek your approval to run our toll booth fundraiser... which was more or less the same fundraiser held from the 1990s through the mid-2010s, Kimble said. Students will collect donations at major intersections, including Hingham Street and Center Avenue, to fund senior nights and athletic gear. Member Tiffanie Needham, new to the concept, asked for a walkthrough of the safety protocols, while Chair O'Loughlin recalled participating in the event during his own high school years. Motion Made by a board member to approve the RHS Athletic Department toll booth fundraiser. Motion Passed (5-0).

The Friends of Rockland Memorial Library also secured a one-day liquor license for their upcoming member appreciation reception. Library Foundation President Karen Hafner detailed how the group stepped in to cover budget shortfalls for the summer reading program. The friends covered the entire shortfall and the library was able to provide the full robust summer reading schedule that they are known for, Hafner said. Member Needham thanked Hafner, stating, You do so much for the library and a stellar job at that. Motion Made by a board member to approve the one-day liquor license for the Friends of Rockland Memorial Library. Motion Passed (5-0).

In his administrative report, Doug Lapp issued a desperate plea for volunteers to join the Rent Control Board, which has been unable to meet due to a lack of a quorum. This vacancy has stalled negotiations for seniors at local manufactured housing communities like Leisure Woods. Vice Chair Childs echoed the urgency, noting that without a functional board, the town faces potential legal liabilities and seniors remain vulnerable to rent increases. Lapp also noted that the town received 10 proposals for the Fire Station Building Project owner's project manager, which will now move into a review phase.

During board comments, Member Steven O'Donnell congratulated Kaylee Keller on being crowned Miss Rockland and thanked the Mullen family for the recent park dedication. Member John Ellard, Jr. noted the emotional impact of the bagpipes at that ceremony, while Member Needham thanked the Police Department for their professionalism during a recent demonstration at Town Hall. Chair O'Loughlin closed the public session with condolences for the family of Tony Lori, a classmate he described as always with a smile. The board then entered executive session to discuss collective bargaining and contract negotiations for the Town Administrator and Fire Department leadership. Motion Made by a board member to enter into executive session. Motion Passed (5-0).