The Rockland Select Board chambers were filled with pride Tuesday evening as the community recognized seven local firefighters recently named state Firefighters of the Year for their heroic actions during a 2024 house fire. The ceremony, which highlighted the department's bravery, shared the spotlight with significant fiscal updates, including a landfill contract award expected to save the town thousands and a contentious vote regarding a snow removal stipend for the Highway Superintendent.

Fire Chief Duffy King detailed the events of June 21, 2024, when a crew arrived at a working house fire to find two elderly residents trapped inside. King specifically praised Firefighter Thomas Henderson, who entered the burning building without his full protective gear because he spotted a victim, and Captain Jason Fricker for his search efforts under heavy fire conditions. He rushed in because he could see one of the occupants. Grabbed him, was able to pull him to safety, King said of Henderson. The board also recognized Liam O'Flaherty, Mark Ashery, Robert Kraton, Kyle Costa, and Reed Broderick for their roles in the rescue. Member Steven O'Donnell noted that the state-level ceremony in Worcester was awe-inspiring, while Vice Chair Lori Childs called the profession truly a calling. Tiffanie Needham thanked the crew for the courage and the bravery to not know what is waiting for you on the other side of that day, and Chair Michael O'Loughlin added that such acts are indicative of the hard work and the training that you guys all go through.

Following the recognition, the board addressed the long-term management of the Pleasant Street Landfill. After an extensive RFP process, the town selected Clean Earth LLC to cap the landfill and provide ongoing amenities. Town Administrator Doug Lapp reported that Clean Earth offered the highest price proposal at $4.25 per ton and included a 30-year post-closure monitoring agreement. This provision is expected to save the town approximately $40,000 annually in monitoring costs. Consultant Mary Nini of CDM Smith explained that while all firms would handle the same amount of material, Clean Earth's proposal was superior in all these other aspects. John Ellard, Jr. admitted he generally prefers local firms but noted, Clean Earth, they just had the extra benefit of the monitoring fee per year, and I think that's what did it for me. Motion Made by S. O'Donnell to award the contract to Clean Earth LLC for the Pleasant Street Landfill Cap. Motion Passed (5-0).

The board's focus on fiscal efficiency continued with the acceptance of a new SUV donated by Webster Park Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center. Chief King explained that the facility’s ownership wished to show gratitude for the department’s response during a fire and evacuation at the center. The nursing home would like to donate an SUV, Lapp said, noting the vehicle fills a capital need for the department. Motion Made by L. Childs to accept this gift. Motion Passed (5-0).

A more divisive discussion emerged regarding an annual snow and ice stipend for Highway Superintendent Dave Taylor. The proposal authorizes a $50 per hour stipend, capped at $10,000, for Taylor to perform loader and sander work outside his normal hours. Lapp argued the arrangement saves the town money by avoiding outside contractors who charge upwards of $185 per hour. Taylor clarified that his crew receives overtime first, stating, I'm a secondary person... my route is from Biggins Junior Home to Holy Family School. However, Member Ellard raised concerns regarding the legality of the payment structure, suggesting it might conflict with state laws regarding salaries set at Town Meeting. I do have concerns about this... so I will be voting no, just because I have concerns, Ellard said. Other members cited the significant cost savings to taxpayers. Motion Made by S. O'Donnell to approve the snow ice stipend for highway superintendent. Motion Passed (4-1), with Ellard in opposition.

The fiscal outlook remains a primary concern for the board as they look toward the FY27 budget. Lapp reported that department head meetings have concluded, with capital requests totaling $5.4 million for non-enterprise funds. A major looming hurdle is a projected double-digit increase in health insurance premiums from Blue Cross. We're pushing Blue Cross for a firm number, Lapp said. The board also discussed potentially seeking an extension for the Plymouth County OPEB (Other Post-Employment Benefits) catch-up deadline to provide budget relief, though Chair O'Loughlin suggested waiting to see the final budget numbers before cashing that chip.

In local business news, the board welcomed Thai Chow to 8 West Water Street. Owner Tammy, who has over a decade of experience in the industry, described the menu as featuring Thai food, sushi, and ramen. Vice Chair Childs shared that her family had already sampled the food, noting the delicious Thai iced tea. Motion Made by T. Needham to approve the license for Thai Chow. Motion Passed (5-0).

The meeting concluded with sharp words regarding the leadership of the Board of Health. Both O'Loughlin and Childs expressed frustration with Chairman Robert Stevens, citing his failure to attend scheduled meetings and a lack of communication that has left permits unsigned. I've called him personally over 20 times and he's not answering any phone calls, O'Loughlin said, urging residents to consider pulling nomination papers for the upcoming town election to fill critical vacancies. Earlier in the meeting, it was announced that nomination papers are now available at the Town Clerk’s office.