ROCKLAND - April 21, 2026 - The Rockland Select Board moved to solidify the town’s administrative and public safety leadership Tuesday night, appointing a new Health Agent and presiding over a major police promotion ceremony. However, the mood was tempered by news of an $85,000 cut in net state aid in the latest House budget, adding urgency to the upcoming Annual Town Meeting on May 4. Town Administrator Doug Lapp also unveiled a new vision for incorporating professionalized community surveys and public art into Union Street’s future following his return from a national leadership program.
The Full Story
The evening began with a celebration of longevity and leadership within the Rockland Police Department. Police Chief Nicholas Zeoli presented three veteran officers for promotion, describing them as the “now” generation of the department’s command staff [04:02].
James Casper was promoted to the rank of Detective Sergeant after 16 years in the detective bureau [04:26]. Brian McDonald, a facilitator for peer support and Plymouth County Outreach, was elevated to Lieutenant [05:01]. Finally, Steve Somers—a 20-year K9 officer with a Juris Doctorate—was named the department’s new Deputy Chief [05:35]. Select Board members, many of whom noted they grew up with the officers, praised the group’s ability to de-escalate and lead with compassion.
