In this issue of Truro Talks
Town Manager discussion on the workings of Government
Budget Process for Fiscal 2023
Holiday Fire Safety
Covid-19 Updates
Employee Spotlight
Budget Process for Fiscal 2023
Holiday Fire Safety
Covid-19 Updates
Employee Spotlight
From the Town Manager's Desk
Happy holidays to the Truro Community,
On occasion, we receive comments and questions from our readers on articles in the Town’s official newsletter, Truro Talks. We appreciate these communications and strive to respond for the benefit of all readers.
First, we received a letter commenting on a September newsletter article on Conflict of Interest law (G.L. c. 268A) and Campaign Finance law (G.L. 55). The purpose of this article was to increase awareness of when these laws may apply to political advocacy by any ”municipal employee” – broadly defined as anyone, including volunteers, performing services for the Town. Conflict of Interest law bars use of a public position to engage in both election-related and non-election-related political activity. Non-election-related activity includes advocacy directed at influencing government decision-makers, such as supporting or opposing a Town Meeting warrant article. Conflict of Interest law also bars any use of public resources in connection with such political activity.
Campaign Finance law, while prohibiting public expenditures to influence ballot questions and elections, does not prohibit public expenditures relating to town meeting deliberations. The letter we received conflated Conflict of Interest and Campaign Finance law, and suggested that we had misapplied the latter. We respectfully disagree and hope that the above explanation is useful in understanding these two statutory schemes and how they apply to participation in Town politics. Please reach out to Town staff if you have any questions about using Town resources to educate or inform the public on a warrant article or a ballot issue for an upcoming scheduled election.
Second, we received a letter regarding an October Newsletter article on electronic vote tabulators. This letter suggested that this article’s publication conflicted with the advice we had provided in the September article concerning advocacy to influence Town Meeting vote. Again, we respectfully disagree. To clarify, the June 2021 Town Meeting vote on the electronic vote tabulator was solely an advisory vote to gauge the position of Town voters on the issue. Under state law, the Select Board is the sole decision-making authority for the purchase and implementation of an electronic vote tabulator. The October newsletter article, published after Town Meeting (by definition, not intended to influence Town Meeting), was intended to provide analysis and feedback to the Select Board and Truro community on the potential risks and rewards of staying the course of using a manual hand crank tabulator.
Posting an educational article on Town election operations following the conclusion of a Town Meeting advisory vote is not the same as publishing a political advocacy article intended to influence the outcome of a pending warrant article and scheduled Town Meeting vote. Returning to the discussion above, it is the use of a public position and Town resource to influence Town Meeting vote that poses a conflict of interest. We hope these responses to the above two letters brings greater clarity to the issues raised and promotes compliance with Conflict of Interest and Campaign Finance law in the future.
Lastly, we can’t reiterate enough how thankful we are for our Town’s staff and volunteers and the dedication and skilled work they have contributed to our community over the years. We have some incredible expertise within many of our Town’s committees that helps inform operational and policy decisions every day. We continue to encourage our local residents and property owners to consider applying to vacant positions on our Town’s multi-member bodies.
Happy Holidays to our Truro readers, visitors, and residents!
Sincerely,
Darrin K. Tangeman, ICMA-CM
Truro Town Manager
Don’t forget to fill out our Town survey here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/talktoustruro
Campaign Finance law, while prohibiting public expenditures to influence ballot questions and elections, does not prohibit public expenditures relating to town meeting deliberations. The letter we received conflated Conflict of Interest and Campaign Finance law, and suggested that we had misapplied the latter. We respectfully disagree and hope that the above explanation is useful in understanding these two statutory schemes and how they apply to participation in Town politics. Please reach out to Town staff if you have any questions about using Town resources to educate or inform the public on a warrant article or a ballot issue for an upcoming scheduled election.
Second, we received a letter regarding an October Newsletter article on electronic vote tabulators. This letter suggested that this article’s publication conflicted with the advice we had provided in the September article concerning advocacy to influence Town Meeting vote. Again, we respectfully disagree. To clarify, the June 2021 Town Meeting vote on the electronic vote tabulator was solely an advisory vote to gauge the position of Town voters on the issue. Under state law, the Select Board is the sole decision-making authority for the purchase and implementation of an electronic vote tabulator. The October newsletter article, published after Town Meeting (by definition, not intended to influence Town Meeting), was intended to provide analysis and feedback to the Select Board and Truro community on the potential risks and rewards of staying the course of using a manual hand crank tabulator.
Posting an educational article on Town election operations following the conclusion of a Town Meeting advisory vote is not the same as publishing a political advocacy article intended to influence the outcome of a pending warrant article and scheduled Town Meeting vote. Returning to the discussion above, it is the use of a public position and Town resource to influence Town Meeting vote that poses a conflict of interest. We hope these responses to the above two letters brings greater clarity to the issues raised and promotes compliance with Conflict of Interest and Campaign Finance law in the future.
Lastly, we can’t reiterate enough how thankful we are for our Town’s staff and volunteers and the dedication and skilled work they have contributed to our community over the years. We have some incredible expertise within many of our Town’s committees that helps inform operational and policy decisions every day. We continue to encourage our local residents and property owners to consider applying to vacant positions on our Town’s multi-member bodies.
Happy Holidays to our Truro readers, visitors, and residents!
Sincerely,
Darrin K. Tangeman, ICMA-CM
Truro Town Manager
Don’t forget to fill out our Town survey here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/talktoustruro
As we begin FY 2023 budget preparations, it is important that we reflect on the changes we have seen both in our community and throughout the Outer Cape. Over the past fifteen years we have seen a more than forty percent decrease in the year-round population of Truro. A severe lack of affordable and market rate housing has created a workforce shortage that not only threatens the viability of businesses but also Town operations. The cost to provide basic services is rising at an alarming rate.
Our annual budget of approximately twenty-one million dollars is primarily derived from two sources of revenue, property tax receipts, and fees. Property tax receipts comprise more than eighty- five percent of this figure. The lack of housing and subsequent reduction in the year-round population has a two-fold effect on the budget. It reduces the level of economic activity, placing a greater reliance on property tax revenue while increasing the cost of basic services.
It is hard to ignore the increasingly heated discourse in the community regarding issues important to all of us. At times, it is apparent that community members are not receiving complete or accurate information regarding these issues. As a result, divides within the community have intensified, critical initiatives have been delayed, and leadership hampered. It is incumbent on the Town to circulate accurate information regarding issues facing the community; equally, it is incumbent on the citizenry to make decisions and provide direction based on these factual representations. Truro is at a crossroads. Will we choose to become a community of multi homeowners relying predominately on property tax receipts for revenue, or will we encourage a robust and diverse socioeconomic environment? The choice is yours and will be a direct result of the decisions we make today.
We need your help. You can begin by participating in the current Community Survey, prepared by the Local Comprehensive Plan Committee and the Walsh Property Community Planning Committee survey currently accessible on the Town’s website: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/talktoustruro. This data will be used to help shape the community’s vision for Truro. Attending the annual Budget Hearing will provide critical information to help cast informed votes at the annual Town Meeting. It is important that we hear from as many people as possible to help formulate the budget and dedicate resources of the town in FY 2023. We look forward to hearing from you!
Town Planner's Monthly Planning Update
Barbara Carboni, Town Planner and Land Use Counsel
bcarboni@truro-ma.gov
Barbara Carboni, Town Planner and Land Use Counsel
bcarboni@truro-ma.gov
Planning Department Report: November 29, 2021
Grant Award
A $75,000 Housing Choice Community Capital Grant has been awarded to the Town by the Department of Housing and Community Development. This grant provides full funding for consulting services needed for the preparation of the Town’s Local Comprehensive Plan (LCP). The LCP will include an Economic Development Plan, prepared by the Economic Development Committee. A press release on this and another grant awarded to the Town is found here:
https://www.truro-ma.gov/home/news/press-release-truro-awarded-two-community-one-stop-for-growth-grants-from-the-commonwealth
Community Survey
The Community Survey, collecting opinion and vision for the Town’s future, went live on the Town’s website on October 1st, with over 500 responses to date. Prepared jointly by the Local Comprehensive Plan Committee and the Walsh Property Community Planning Committee, with additional questions from the Truro Housing Authority, this Survey will inform the LCPC and WPCPC in their long-term planning work. The Town continues to publicize the Community Survey to maximize participation. The Survey link is here:
https://www.truro-ma.gov/home/news/talk-to-us-truro-complete-the-community-survey-to-inform-town-planning-processes
Local Comprehensive Plan Committee
At meetings in October and November, the LCPC discussed ways to encourage participation in the Community Survey, including by persons not reached electronically. The LCPC also began planning a future outreach event involving stakeholders in the LCP process. The Committee’s next meeting is December 6, 2021, at 10:00 a.m. The agenda and meeting link will be posted on the Committee’s website, here:
https://www.truro-ma.gov/local-comprehensive-plan-committee
Walsh Property Community Planning Committee
A revised charge for the WPCPC was approved by the Select Board on October 26, 2021; it can be found here:
https://www.truro-ma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif3936/f/uploads/final_wpcpc_charge.pdf
Two studies under-way will inform the WPCPC in its work determining potential uses of the Walsh Property. First, the engineering firm Weston & Sampson is preparing an assessment of the existing structures on the Property, determining building conditions and suitability for potential renovation and reuse. Second, a feasibility assessment of the entire property is being prepared by Tighe & Bond, a firm providing engineering, site planning, and design services. The firm will advise the Town on the capacity and constraints of the property, including environmental and other regulatory controls.
At its meeting in November, the WPCPC discussed its new charge, work plan, the Community Survey, and additional public outreach. The Committee’s next meeting is December 15, 2021 at 6:30 p.m. The meeting link and agenda will be posted here:
https://www.truro-ma.gov/walsh-property-community-planning-committee-0
Economic Development Committee
At its meetings in October and November, the EDC discussed sample Economic Development Plans and the features most suitable for this Committee’s work and end product. The Committee also discussed an inventory of existing businesses and public outreach strategies. The Committee’s next meeting is December 2, 2021 at 9:30 a.m. The meeting link and agenda will be posted here:
https://www.truro-ma.gov/economic-development-committee
Boards/Committees
Zoning Board of Appeals
The ZBA opened a public hearing on November 21, 2021 on an application for variances and special permit for property located at 127 South Pamet Road, relating to the proposed move of a dwelling from abutting property at 133 South Pamet Road, to the 127 South Pamet property. This proposed relocation arises from erosion on the 133 South Pamet property. The case raises interesting zoning issues. The hearing was continued to the ZBA’s next meeting on December 20, 2021 at 5:30 p.m.
Also, at that meeting, the ZBA will open a public hearing on an application for a special permit for reconstruction of a nonconforming dwelling on property located at 21 Cooper Road. The meeting link and agenda for the December 20, 2021 meeting will be posted on the ZBA website, here: https://www.truro-ma.gov/zoning-board-of-appeals
Planning Board
At work sessions in October and November, the Planning Board discussed topics including potential Zoning Bylaw changes; edits to the Board’s Handbook; and perspective on the LCPC process. At a meeting on November 17, 2021, the Board voted to endorse, as Approval Not Required (ANR), a plan depicting four lots at 105 Castle Road, subject to certain amendments to the Plan.
The Board’s next meeting will be held on December 1, 2021 at 5:00 p.m. The Board will discuss, among other topics, the Zoning Bylaw definition of “street.” The meeting link and agenda will be found here: https://www.truro-ma.gov/planning-board
Related: On November 12, 2021, A.C. Mobile Home Park, Inc. (f/k/a Hortons Campground) submitted an application to the Cape Cod Commission for an exemption from the Development of Regional Impact (DRI) process relating to the Approval Not Required (ANR) Plan referred by the Planning Board to the Commission as a Mandatory Referral. The Commission opened public hearing as a formality, and recently advised the Applicant of certain further information required for review. When the application is complete, the Commission will schedule a substantive public hearing, to be completed within 45 days of the completeness determination.
Truro Housing Authority
At its October meetings, the THA discussed funding requests to the Community Preservation Committee and voted to change (and to present to the Select Board) the existing Emergency Rental Assistance Program to a Regular Rental Assistance Program.
At its November meeting, the THA reviewed and discussed a report and recommendations by Mark Nelson of the Horsley Witten Group, regarding potential improvements to the development site and design for property 181 Route 6. This property was the site of a Habitat for Humanity project approved by the ZBA but overturned by Barnstable Superior Court. The THA also reviewed and discussed a solicitation for quotations prepared by the Town’s Housing Consultant Leedara Zola for services to prepare a Housing Needs Assessment and update to the Town’s Housing Production Plan.
The Housing Authority’s next meeting is December 9, 2021 at 4:15 p.m. The meeting link and agenda will be posted here: https://www.truro-ma.gov/housing-authority
Grant Award
A $75,000 Housing Choice Community Capital Grant has been awarded to the Town by the Department of Housing and Community Development. This grant provides full funding for consulting services needed for the preparation of the Town’s Local Comprehensive Plan (LCP). The LCP will include an Economic Development Plan, prepared by the Economic Development Committee. A press release on this and another grant awarded to the Town is found here:
https://www.truro-ma.gov/home/news/press-release-truro-awarded-two-community-one-stop-for-growth-grants-from-the-commonwealth
Community Survey
The Community Survey, collecting opinion and vision for the Town’s future, went live on the Town’s website on October 1st, with over 500 responses to date. Prepared jointly by the Local Comprehensive Plan Committee and the Walsh Property Community Planning Committee, with additional questions from the Truro Housing Authority, this Survey will inform the LCPC and WPCPC in their long-term planning work. The Town continues to publicize the Community Survey to maximize participation. The Survey link is here:
https://www.truro-ma.gov/home/news/talk-to-us-truro-complete-the-community-survey-to-inform-town-planning-processes
Local Comprehensive Plan Committee
At meetings in October and November, the LCPC discussed ways to encourage participation in the Community Survey, including by persons not reached electronically. The LCPC also began planning a future outreach event involving stakeholders in the LCP process. The Committee’s next meeting is December 6, 2021, at 10:00 a.m. The agenda and meeting link will be posted on the Committee’s website, here:
https://www.truro-ma.gov/local-comprehensive-plan-committee
Walsh Property Community Planning Committee
A revised charge for the WPCPC was approved by the Select Board on October 26, 2021; it can be found here:
https://www.truro-ma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif3936/f/uploads/final_wpcpc_charge.pdf
Two studies under-way will inform the WPCPC in its work determining potential uses of the Walsh Property. First, the engineering firm Weston & Sampson is preparing an assessment of the existing structures on the Property, determining building conditions and suitability for potential renovation and reuse. Second, a feasibility assessment of the entire property is being prepared by Tighe & Bond, a firm providing engineering, site planning, and design services. The firm will advise the Town on the capacity and constraints of the property, including environmental and other regulatory controls.
At its meeting in November, the WPCPC discussed its new charge, work plan, the Community Survey, and additional public outreach. The Committee’s next meeting is December 15, 2021 at 6:30 p.m. The meeting link and agenda will be posted here:
https://www.truro-ma.gov/walsh-property-community-planning-committee-0
Economic Development Committee
At its meetings in October and November, the EDC discussed sample Economic Development Plans and the features most suitable for this Committee’s work and end product. The Committee also discussed an inventory of existing businesses and public outreach strategies. The Committee’s next meeting is December 2, 2021 at 9:30 a.m. The meeting link and agenda will be posted here:
https://www.truro-ma.gov/economic-development-committee
Boards/Committees
Zoning Board of Appeals
The ZBA opened a public hearing on November 21, 2021 on an application for variances and special permit for property located at 127 South Pamet Road, relating to the proposed move of a dwelling from abutting property at 133 South Pamet Road, to the 127 South Pamet property. This proposed relocation arises from erosion on the 133 South Pamet property. The case raises interesting zoning issues. The hearing was continued to the ZBA’s next meeting on December 20, 2021 at 5:30 p.m.
Also, at that meeting, the ZBA will open a public hearing on an application for a special permit for reconstruction of a nonconforming dwelling on property located at 21 Cooper Road. The meeting link and agenda for the December 20, 2021 meeting will be posted on the ZBA website, here: https://www.truro-ma.gov/zoning-board-of-appeals
Planning Board
At work sessions in October and November, the Planning Board discussed topics including potential Zoning Bylaw changes; edits to the Board’s Handbook; and perspective on the LCPC process. At a meeting on November 17, 2021, the Board voted to endorse, as Approval Not Required (ANR), a plan depicting four lots at 105 Castle Road, subject to certain amendments to the Plan.
The Board’s next meeting will be held on December 1, 2021 at 5:00 p.m. The Board will discuss, among other topics, the Zoning Bylaw definition of “street.” The meeting link and agenda will be found here: https://www.truro-ma.gov/planning-board
Related: On November 12, 2021, A.C. Mobile Home Park, Inc. (f/k/a Hortons Campground) submitted an application to the Cape Cod Commission for an exemption from the Development of Regional Impact (DRI) process relating to the Approval Not Required (ANR) Plan referred by the Planning Board to the Commission as a Mandatory Referral. The Commission opened public hearing as a formality, and recently advised the Applicant of certain further information required for review. When the application is complete, the Commission will schedule a substantive public hearing, to be completed within 45 days of the completeness determination.
Truro Housing Authority
At its October meetings, the THA discussed funding requests to the Community Preservation Committee and voted to change (and to present to the Select Board) the existing Emergency Rental Assistance Program to a Regular Rental Assistance Program.
At its November meeting, the THA reviewed and discussed a report and recommendations by Mark Nelson of the Horsley Witten Group, regarding potential improvements to the development site and design for property 181 Route 6. This property was the site of a Habitat for Humanity project approved by the ZBA but overturned by Barnstable Superior Court. The THA also reviewed and discussed a solicitation for quotations prepared by the Town’s Housing Consultant Leedara Zola for services to prepare a Housing Needs Assessment and update to the Town’s Housing Production Plan.
The Housing Authority’s next meeting is December 9, 2021 at 4:15 p.m. The meeting link and agenda will be posted here: https://www.truro-ma.gov/housing-authority
Truro Launches Online Fiscal Transparency Center Powered By ClearGov
New public-facing profile translates complex government financial data into easy-to-understand infographics.
Truro announced today that it has launched a new online Transparency Center powered by ClearGov, a leading provider of online communications software for local governments. This new online profile provides residents with an easy-to-understand, interactive breakdown of the city's finances. The Transparency Center is also optimized for use by citizens with disabilities who rely on assistive technology, such as screen readers and voice recognition software. This ensures that financials, demographics, projects, and other information displayed on the Transparency Center are already optimized for ADA guidelines.
The Town of Truro believes that financial and operational transparency is the cornerstone of governance and strong, sustainable communities.
Visitors to the Transparency Center will also be able to subscribe to certain pages to receive automatic email updates as new information becomes available.
“We are proud to have taken this proactive step toward a more open and accessible government and we’re excited to make this intuitive, user-friendly, and ADA-optimized experience available to our community,” said Darrin Tangeman, Town Manager. “Not everyone has the time to attend public meetings. The Transparency Center will make it easy and convenient for interested residents to stay informed.”
“ClearGov is pleased to partner with the Town of Truro to enhance their transparency efforts and drive citizen engagement” said Chris Bullock, CEO of ClearGov." Residents should be proud of the leadership Truro has demonstrated by embracing innovation and taking that essential next step toward true clarity and accountability in local government.”
Alex Marini Lessin, Finance Director, says the best way to learn more about the Transparency Center and Truro’s finances is to go online and explore. “We strongly encourage residents to visit: https://cleargov.com/massachusetts/barnstable/town/truro to see their tax dollars at work. You can also visit the town website and click on the Transparency Center banner.
About ClearGov
ClearGov is on a mission to build a community of modern, transparent, data-driven local governments and school districts. ClearGov helps local agencies streamline their operations and catalyze community support by making complex government data easy to understand and easy to use. We provide a full suite of turnkey solutions to help drive financial and operational transparency, modernize budgeting, and better connect agencies with the communities they serve. ClearGov’s award-winning platform is currently used by hundreds of communities across 30+ states. For more information, visit: www.cleargov.com.
Alex Lessin, Finance Director
alessin@truro-ma.gov
alessin@truro-ma.gov
New public-facing profile translates complex government financial data into easy-to-understand infographics.
Truro announced today that it has launched a new online Transparency Center powered by ClearGov, a leading provider of online communications software for local governments. This new online profile provides residents with an easy-to-understand, interactive breakdown of the city's finances. The Transparency Center is also optimized for use by citizens with disabilities who rely on assistive technology, such as screen readers and voice recognition software. This ensures that financials, demographics, projects, and other information displayed on the Transparency Center are already optimized for ADA guidelines.
The Town of Truro believes that financial and operational transparency is the cornerstone of governance and strong, sustainable communities.
Visitors to the Transparency Center will also be able to subscribe to certain pages to receive automatic email updates as new information becomes available.
“We are proud to have taken this proactive step toward a more open and accessible government and we’re excited to make this intuitive, user-friendly, and ADA-optimized experience available to our community,” said Darrin Tangeman, Town Manager. “Not everyone has the time to attend public meetings. The Transparency Center will make it easy and convenient for interested residents to stay informed.”
“ClearGov is pleased to partner with the Town of Truro to enhance their transparency efforts and drive citizen engagement” said Chris Bullock, CEO of ClearGov." Residents should be proud of the leadership Truro has demonstrated by embracing innovation and taking that essential next step toward true clarity and accountability in local government.”
Alex Marini Lessin, Finance Director, says the best way to learn more about the Transparency Center and Truro’s finances is to go online and explore. “We strongly encourage residents to visit: https://cleargov.com/massachusetts/barnstable/town/truro to see their tax dollars at work. You can also visit the town website and click on the Transparency Center banner.
About ClearGov
ClearGov is on a mission to build a community of modern, transparent, data-driven local governments and school districts. ClearGov helps local agencies streamline their operations and catalyze community support by making complex government data easy to understand and easy to use. We provide a full suite of turnkey solutions to help drive financial and operational transparency, modernize budgeting, and better connect agencies with the communities they serve. ClearGov’s award-winning platform is currently used by hundreds of communities across 30+ states. For more information, visit: www.cleargov.com.
COVID-19 Update
Emily Beebe, Health and Conservation Agent
ebebee@truro-ma.gov
ebebee@truro-ma.gov
COVID-19 Vaccination “Booster” shots are now recommended for individuals who have been fully vaccinated for at least 6 months after their second shot of Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna, or after 2 months of receiving the single dose of the J&J vaccine.
Both the CDC and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health are encouraging this additional dose to reduce the chance of serious illness. The CDC recommends the pediatric COVID-19 vaccine for children who are 5-11 years old. People ages 5-17 can get the Pfizer- BioNTech vaccine. Local Pediatric offices and Outer Cape Health Services are supplied to provide vaccine to patients. You can also refer to https://vaxfinder.mass.gov to find a location.
People who are 18 or older can get any vaccine. For more information about the vaccine please visit the state web page at https://www.mass.gov/covid-19-vaccine.
Individuals who are not yet vaccinated are strongly encouraged to get the vaccine to protect themselves and others from serious illness and morbidity.
With the announcement of the first identified case of the omicron variant of COVID-19 in the United States, the Truro Health Department is monitoring the latest information from the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Much is still unknown about this variant, but individuals are reminded to continue to practice COVID safety measures by getting vaccinated (and receiving booster shots), maintaining physical distance where possible and masking where appropriate. Staff is committed to providing updates to the community as more information is available. Visit the Town of Truro’s COVID Information page for the latest at: https://www.truro-ma.gov/emergency-management/pages/covid-19-information.
With the announcement of the first identified case of the omicron variant of COVID-19 in the United States, the Truro Health Department is monitoring the latest information from the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Much is still unknown about this variant, but individuals are reminded to continue to practice COVID safety measures by getting vaccinated (and receiving booster shots), maintaining physical distance where possible and masking where appropriate. Staff is committed to providing updates to the community as more information is available. Visit the Town of Truro’s COVID Information page for the latest at: https://www.truro-ma.gov/emergency-management/pages/covid-19-information.
Safety during the Holidays
Tim Collins, Fire Chief
tcollins@truro-ma.gov
Tim Collins, Fire Chief
tcollins@truro-ma.gov
Holiday decorations
- U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated average of 790 home structure fires per year that began with decorations, excluding Christmas trees, in 2015-2019. These fires caused an annual average of one civilian fire death, 26 civilian fire injuries and $13 million in direct property damage.
- One in five home decoration fires occurred in December.
- The decoration was too close to a heat source such as a candle or equipment in more than two of every five incidents.
- Year-round, more than one-third of home decoration fires were started by candles. Cooking started 19 percent of decoration fires, 12 percent involved electrical distribution and lighting equipment, heating equipment was involved in 11 percent, 8 percent were intentionally set, and smoking materials started 7 percent.
- Candles caused 45 percent of home decoration fires in December.
Candles
- Between 2015-2019, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 7,400 home fires that were started by candles. These fires caused an average of 90 civilian deaths, 670 civilian injuries and $291 million in direct property damage.
- On average, 20 home candle fires were reported each day between 2015-2019.
- Three of every five candle fires started when something that could burn, such as furniture, mattresses or bedding, curtains, or decorations, was too close to the candle.
- Candle fires peak in December and January with 11 percent of candle fires in each of these months.
- Christmas is the peak day for candle fires with roughly 2.5 times the daily average.
Holiday cooking
- Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires, followed by Christmas Day and Christmas Eve.
- Cooking equipment was involved in one of every five (19%) of home decoration fires. This can happen when a decoration is left on or too close to a stove or other cooking equipment.
Climate Action!
2021 Climate Actions
Climate Action Committee
climateaction@truro-ma.gov
2021 Climate Actions
Climate Action Committee
climateaction@truro-ma.gov
During 2021, the Climate Action Committee (CAC) focused on outreach and education. We believe that connecting with residents, part-time residents, and business owners is key to addressing climate change. Every constituent has different needs and capabilities, and we plan to offer a variety of actions that are accessible to everyone.
We also believe that partnering with like-minded groups will help us learn from others, save resources, and create a consistent message across the Outer Cape. While individual towns and organizations may have some differing goals, climate change doesn’t recognize borders. What affects our neighbors affects us.
The CAC’s biggest charge from the Select Board to is develop a community-wide climate action plan. We began that plan this year by gathering information that we’ll use to create the plan.
Outreach & Education
We also believe that partnering with like-minded groups will help us learn from others, save resources, and create a consistent message across the Outer Cape. While individual towns and organizations may have some differing goals, climate change doesn’t recognize borders. What affects our neighbors affects us.
The CAC’s biggest charge from the Select Board to is develop a community-wide climate action plan. We began that plan this year by gathering information that we’ll use to create the plan.
Outreach & Education
- Reached out to Truro businesses to sign up for Cape Light Compact’s free energy audits for businesses. Twelve businesses signed on.
- Wrote monthly Truro Talks articles
- Interviews and articles in The Provincetown Banner, The Provincetown Independent, and Lower Cape TV
- Compiled a summary of Truro’s green initiatives since 2004
- Staffed an information table at the Farmers’ Market
Partnering
- Worked with Cape Light Compact to support energy programs
- Worked with Truro’s Energy Committee on several initiatives
- Facilitated Outer Cape Climate Committees, a collaboration with Truro, Wellfleet, Eastham, and Orleans
Climate Action Plan
- Completed Greenhouse Gas Inventory
- Conducted Community Input Meetings
- Conducted surveys to obtain input from residents
- Reviewed State and County climate plans
- Conducted a workshop with the Select Board
- Partnering with a local business to on electric vehicle charging
The CAC currently has five members who meet twice a month, and most meetings focus on the status of on-going and up-coming activities. We’re looking for new members and welcome volunteers for specific activities. If you think you’d like to join us but are not sure, one or two of us will meet with you, explain the work, and answer your questions. We also recommend that you attend a meeting or two.
You can check us out on the Truro town website at https://www.truro-ma.gov/climate-action-committee
Questions? Contact Truro’s Climate Action Committee at climateaction@truro-ma.gov
You can check us out on the Truro town website at https://www.truro-ma.gov/climate-action-committee
Questions? Contact Truro’s Climate Action Committee at climateaction@truro-ma.gov
Climate Ambassadors Grades 9 to 12
The Climate Ambassador Program is an initiative to educate, engage and empower young people on Cape Cod to work together to combat climate change. The Program is for students in grades 9-12 who would like to develop a better understanding of climate change, learn how to communicate effectively about climate, and learn what actions can be taken individually and collectively to bring about change.
Selected students will participate in virtual meetings, where they will learn about and discuss a variety of climate-related subjects, including local and global climate causes and impacts, carbon reduction strategies, resiliency planning, and equity considerations. Students will have a chance to show off their creativity with a small project demonstrating how they can have a personal impact on climate change at home or in their school communities.
For information and an application, go to: https://capecodcommission.org/our-work/climate-ambassadors-program
Selected students will participate in virtual meetings, where they will learn about and discuss a variety of climate-related subjects, including local and global climate causes and impacts, carbon reduction strategies, resiliency planning, and equity considerations. Students will have a chance to show off their creativity with a small project demonstrating how they can have a personal impact on climate change at home or in their school communities.
For information and an application, go to: https://capecodcommission.org/our-work/climate-ambassadors-program
Employee Spotlight: Susan Joseph
Finance Director, Alex Lessin
alessin@truro-ma.gov
Finance Director, Alex Lessin
alessin@truro-ma.gov
After more than 20 years in the Treasurer, Collector, and Town Clerk’s office, Susan A. Gilman Joseph is retiring from the Town of Truro at the end of December.
Have you talked to Susan? Odds are you have if you have ever visited Town Hall and you know she is eager to help our residents conduct business and ensure they always leave satisfied. Once Susan understands what a visitor or caller is seeking, she has always strived to provide a precise and earnest answer.
Mrs. Joseph has served the people of the Outer Cape for her entire career. Those who have worked with her will agree that she puts her customers first - whether as a waitress at the Lobster Pot, a school bus driver, a billing specialist, or temporary town clerk and treasurer.
Do they make people like Susan anymore? She is the first to arrive and the last to leave. Extremely detail oriented, her passion for her craft is apparent. The Town of Truro has been incredibly fortunate to have Susan serve our community, not the least of which is her skill and passion for accurate record keeping that is crucial to present and future Town operations.
Recent achievements include establishing early voting, guiding the town through transition at the Town Manager and Treasurer/Collector offices, and ensuring staff were paid correctly and on time as business came to a halt across the world due to the coronavirus.
Her grand efforts and no-bull attitude will be sincerely missed.
Do wish Susan well in all her future endeavors if you see her.
Employee Spotlight: Police Sergeant Tom Roda
Jamie Calise, Truro Police Chief
jcalise@truropolice.org
jcalise@truropolice.org
Welcome back, Sergeant Roda!
Truro Police department is excited to welcome back Sergeant Thomas Roda.
Sergeant Roda joined the Truro Police Department back in 2014. Prior to his appointment as a police officer, he served as a paramedic with Lower Cape Ambulance for nearly 15 years and was the owner BC’s Automotive Repair Shop in town. As a Truro resident, Tom is deeply devoted to this community and to his family. He demonstrates that commitment each day, whether he is on or off duty.
At the police department, Tom wears many important hats. He is a certified sexual assault investigator, a firearms instructor, a certified medic, and is the department’s designated community outreach officer. Tom also serves as a member of the Cape and Islands Peer Support Team and the CCRLEC Motor Unit. When new officers are hired, Tom is one of the department’s primary field trainers responsible for showing them the ropes. At home, Tom is a dedicated husband, father, and friend.
Back in May, Tom was involved in a serious motor vehicle accident in Truro. The outpouring of support for him that followed was overwhelming, and it showed how impactful he has been to others. While his injuries were serious, Tom remained focused on his recovery. Throughout, he continued to inspire others through his hard work and ambition. During his recovery, Tom even took part in a promotional process that resulted in his recent appointment to police sergeant.
Welcome back, Sergeant Roda - you are proof that perseverance can be inspiring to others!
Department News
Shellfish Department
2022 Shellfish Licenses are on sale now!
Shellfishing Licenses can be purchased in person at Town Hall Tuesday-Friday
from 8AM-4PM or by calling 508-349-7004, (Extensions 110, 124 or 121) Monday - Friday 8:00am - 4:00pm.
On Weekends licenses are available at the Harbormaster's Office 9am-5pm, (508) 349-2555.
December Events at the Library
ADOPT A LOCAL FAMILY FOR THE HOLIDAYS
The annual "Angel Tree" at the Truro Library (like everything else) has changed a little. However, the Homeless Prevention Council is still taking care of Cape Cod families, and the staff at the Truro Library is still facilitating support from the people of Truro. This year Homeless Prevention Council is only accepting personal checks, cash, or Visa/Mastercard/AMEX-style gift cards. We must have your contribution at the Truro library on Friday, December 3. Thanks for helping. If you miss the deadline, you may also contact HPC directly at 508-255-9667 or info@hpccapecod.org.
Wednesday, December 1, 2021, Truro Book Group will meet and discuss The Code Breaker: Jennifer Doudna, Gene Editing, and the Future of the Human Race by Walter Isaacson. The book group has been meeting outdoors behind the library and will likely move inside for the December meeting. If you would like to join virtually, please email Maggie (mhanelt@clamsnet.org) to receive a Zoom invite.
Saturday, December 4, 2021, "Building Bridges, Not Walls" is a highly-interactive, two-hour workshop on conflict resolution facilitated by Cape Mediation inc. Choose one of four dates to take the workshop.
Through the use of exercises and role-plays, participants will be introduced to essential communication tools. Workshop leaders teach listening skills, help prioritize goals, and understand conflict, and they tailor the workshop to the specific needs of participants.
Please call to register. Space is limited. This workshop will be offered on other Saturdays on January 15, February 5, and March 5.
Like last year, our Angel Tree is operating under the "Adopt a Family" framework. The donation deadline is December 3. Join us in helping the Homeless Prevention Council make sure that local children in need receive warm clothing, a hat, gloves, and toys this holiday season through their "Adopt a Family" program. Instead of having our Angel Tree, this year we are accepting monetary donations or Visa-style gift cards (please no Amazon gift cards). You can drop your donations off through the library's book drop in an envelope labeled ANGEL or bring them inside. Thank you for helping those in need! You may also contact HPC directly at 508-255-9667 or info@hpccapecod.org.
The annual Outer Cape Mock Caldecott is in session! Every year, the Association of Library Services to Children, a division of the American Library Association, awards the Caldecott Medal to the artist(s) of the most distinguished American children's picture book. Provincetown and Truro Libraries, with the participation of our patrons, mirror this process by choosing a book to honor with our own "mock" Caldecott award. Truro library patrons and students from Truro Central School chose The Undefeated, illustrated by Kadir Nelson and written by Kwame Alexander, as our Mock Caldecott winner of 2020, which was also selected as the official Caldecott medal winner! In 2021, we chose We Are Water Protectors, written by Carole Lindstrom and illustrated by Michaela Goade. We encourage all of our patrons to participate and become part of the "Mock Caldecott Committee." You might like to watch this video called Mock Caldecott: How to Choose, which features Barbara Klipper, or look at her slideshow to review criteria and "points to consider" when making your selection. From there, you can request each of the books from the library along with a physical paper ballot or download the ebooks (we recommend Overdrive on a computer over Libby on a device so that you can see the two-page spread, but either will work). After enjoying the books, please fill out the paper ballot (you can download it here) and drop it off at the library, or use the online ballot available on our website. Voting ends January 14, 2022, and we will announce our winner on January 15, 2022. The official Caldecott medal winner will be announced on January 24, 2022.
2022 Business Applications available here!
Come work for Truro!
Positions available with the Town of Truro
Department Photos and Videos
Library employee, Kenneth Hawkey, taking a break after spending the day filling those 6 boxes for distribution to other Cape Cod libraries.
Library employee, Kenneth Hawkey, taking a break after spending the day filling those 6 boxes for distribution to other Cape Cod libraries.
Action shot at Homeless Prevention Council
Courtney Francis delivers Angel Tree donations
Courtney Francis delivers Angel Tree donations
National Park Service Pond Work Day
Arozana Davis, Assistant Health and Conservation Agent participated in the Pond Work Day alongside the National Park Service staff.
Native plants were planted at Dyer Pond in Wellfleet to help with stormwater runoff.
Fencing was installed to direct the public onto the main paths.
At Great Pond in Truro, we also added native plants around the public landing, pulled old staples out there as well, and worked on a new erosion control idea created by NPS members. It included the installation of fencing, draped with burlap netting and the installation of straw waddles along the bottom. This will hopefully catch the sand that is eroding from the hill to the pond.
Arozana Davis, Assistant Health and Conservation Agent participated in the Pond Work Day alongside the National Park Service staff.
Native plants were planted at Dyer Pond in Wellfleet to help with stormwater runoff.
Fencing was installed to direct the public onto the main paths.
At Great Pond in Truro, we also added native plants around the public landing, pulled old staples out there as well, and worked on a new erosion control idea created by NPS members. It included the installation of fencing, draped with burlap netting and the installation of straw waddles along the bottom. This will hopefully catch the sand that is eroding from the hill to the pond.
The Truro Fire and Rescue department assisted with a 78-foot commercial fishing vessel ship named Carrabassett from New Bedford that ran aground at Longnook beach on November 30th.
Barnstable County assisted with dredging the Pamet Harbor on November 20th.
Barnstable County assisted with dredging the Pamet Harbor on November 20th.
Opening Day at Pamet Harbor for Shellfishing
Press Releases
Press release dated: November 15, 2021
Old County Road Closure Notice
The Town of Truro has awarded a contract to MIG Corporation to remove and replace the culvert located on Old County Road between Phats Valley Road and Abby Lane.
The roadway segment between Phats Valley Road and Abby Lane will be closed beginning mid-to late-November 2021 through May 2022.
All residents that live south of Phats Valley Road will need to utilize Prince Valley Road to travel north into Truro or Provincetown.
For updates regarding the project and road closure schedule, please contact the DPW office at (508) 214 0400 or visit https://www.truro-ma.gov and click on the Public Works webpage for details.
You may also email the Public Works Department at jcabral@truro-ma.gov with your questions.
Thank you for your patience and cooperation during this project.
Sincerely,
Jarrod J. Cabral, Public Works Director
PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 23, 2021
Truro Awarded Two Community One Stop for Growth Grants from the Commonwealth
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts announced two grants totaling $380,000 are awarded to the Town of Truro under the Community One Stop for Growth Program. The two grants fall under two separate funding categories—the FY22 Rural and Small Town Development Fund and the FY22 Housing Choice Community Capital Grant—but were applied for under the State’s new single application portal and collaborative review process for community and economic development grant programs that make targeted investments based on a Development Continuum.
The Housing Choice Community Capital Grant will provide $75,000 in funding for the technical assistance and consulting work related to the Local Comprehensive Plan. The Plan was last updated in 2015 and this $75,000 grant will be paired with District Local Technical Assistance funds that were awarded to the Town this year as well. With both awards, the Local Comprehensive Plan Committee will now have the technical support needed to complete the entire Plan, which will include an Economic Development Plan, supported by the Economic Development Committee. Truro is one of 28 communities to receive the Housing Choice grant.
The Rural and Small Town Development Grant will provide $305,000 in funding for the creation and installation of an innovative alternative (I/A) wastewater treatment system for the Cloverleaf Community Housing Project to treat wastewater effluent generated by the project that was critical to its approval and will help reduce the nitrate level in the wastewater effluent. Truro is one of 16 communities to receive the Rural and Small Town Development grant.
“We are so grateful to our State partners for recognizing the financial support that a smaller community like Truro needs,” stated Truro Town Manager Darrin Tangeman. “Funding for our Local Comprehensive Plan is crucial to ensuring that Truro is creating a clear vision and path for our future, and the I/A system funding will help the Town move forward in the Cloverleaf Housing project—a key step in addressing the housing crisis Truro faces.”
The Local Comprehensive Plan public process is currently underway, and a Plan will be presented at a future Town Meeting for approval and acceptance. The water line to serve Cloverleaf has been installed; construction of the residential project is presently on hold pending the appeal process for the 40B comprehensive permit.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 30, 2021
Settlement Approved For A/C Mobile Home Park, Inc. vs. Town of Truro Zoning Board of Appeals
On November 16, 2021, Barnstable County Superior Court approved judgment for settlement between A/C Mobile Home Park, Inc. and the Town of Truro Zoning Board of Appeals after a years-long and complex litigation regarding the property known as Horton’s Campground, located at 71 South Highland Road, and North Truro Campground, located at 46 Highland Road, in Truro, Massachusetts. Based on the advice of Town Counsel, the Truro Select Board and Zoning Board of Appeals believed reaching a settlement to avoid the expense and risk of a trial was in the Town’s best interests.
Following year-long negotiations, the agreed upon and approved settlement includes the following stipulations:
- Imposes a rigorous, peer-reviewed restoration plan for the upper campground at Hortons, where significant site disturbance occurred, as well as an invasive species removal plan, with a five-year monitoring requirement.
- Imposes a peer-reviewed screening plan for the lower campground at Hortons to provide additional visual buffers along its frontage with South Highland Road.
- Permanently prohibits any increase in the number of campsites at both the Horton’s and North Truro Campgrounds.
- Permanently prohibits Recreational Vehicle use of 41 of the 132 campsites in the upper campground at Hortons.
- Temporarily prohibits Recreational Vehicle use of another 13 campsites in the upper campground until 2026.
- Prohibits the construction of any new permanent structures appurtenant to campsites, such as decks, sheds and porches; only temporary decks and temporary sheds of no more than 64 square feet are permitted.
- Imposes requirements for inventorying and paying taxes to the Town on trailers and other vehicles stored at both campgrounds.
In addition, A/C Mobile Home Park, Inc. has separately settled regulatory action with the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife by agreeing to place approximately 9.61 acres of land abutting the campground under a permanent conservation restriction to be held by the Truro Conservation Trust and to donate more than $85,000 for off-site land protection, conservation research, habitat management and conservation planning.
A/C Mobile Home Park, Inc. will also be required to construct a new multimillion-dollar wastewater treatment system that will serve both the Horton’s and North Truro campgrounds.
Contact: Administration Office Town of Truro
PO Box 2030
Truro MA 02666
(509) 349-7004 x110 or x124
Fax (508) 349-5505
Town offices will be closed in observance of the Holidays, December 23rd, December 24th , December 30th, and December 31st.
Transfer Station Hours:
From November 1 through April 30:
Open Monday, Tuesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 7:30am to 3:30pm.
(Closed Wednesday and Thursday)
Public Library Events in December, for information visit: https://trurolibrary.org/event
Board and Committee Meeting information available here:
https://www.truro-ma.gov/calendar/month/2021-12
Truro Talks Next Newsletter Issue
JANUARY
Why the Census/Streetlist matters
Study and Engagement on EMS Study
Annual Town Report - We would love your input
Introducing a new Seasonal Rental Registration Program
JANUARY
Why the Census/Streetlist matters
Study and Engagement on EMS Study
Annual Town Report - We would love your input
Introducing a new Seasonal Rental Registration Program