Plymouth Select Board Approves Special Municipal Employee Status for Moderator
PLYMOUTH - August 19 - During a lengthy meeting on August 19, 2025, the Plymouth Select Board voted 4-1 to designate the position of Town Moderator as a Special Municipal Employee (SME), enabling the office to represent private clients before municipal boards. This decision raised concerns over potential conflicts of interest and the impact of leveraging public positions for private gain.
The Full Story: The Plymouth Select Board convened on Monday, August 19, for a session that included discussions on various municipal matters, but the highlight was the contentious debate surrounding the application for Special Municipal Employee designation submitted by the Town Moderator, Steven Triffletti.
This designation allows Triffletti, an attorney, to represent private clients in front of various municipal boards, an aspect that drew significant scrutiny from board members. Opponents of the designation expressed concerns about conflicts of interest, with Select Board Chair Kevin Canty vocalizing worries that approving such a status could create an inappropriate overlap between public service and private business. He stated, "I am seeking from you...how does it benefit the town to offer and designate the position of moderator as a special municipal employee?"
Despite these objections, supporters, including board member Dan Golden, argued that the added expertise of Triffletti provided a significant benefit to the town, particularly during town meetings which often involve complex legal questions. Golden stated, "I trust the voters of Plymouth," referencing Triffletti’s long-standing service and repeated re-elections to the position.
In a presentation to the board, Triffletti affirmed that he would refrain from representing any members of boards or committees who might have claims against those bodies. He reinforced that his representation would generally be directed toward non-profits, stating, "I would reaffirm that openly to this board."
Following robust discussions, board members cast their votes, resulting in a 4-1 approval of the SME designation, with Canty voting no. The controversy surrounding the decision suggests underlying tensions regarding the balance between professional expertise and municipal ethics.
Following the vote, public comment shifted toward discussions on community matters. Local residents, including representatives from the New England Mountain Bike Association, advocated for the preservation of open space and the creation of a network of trails aimed at enhancing economic growth through tourism and recreation. Public speakers underscored the importance of developing the 1,600 acres of land while preserving ecological integrity.
The board wrapped up its session by moving into an executive discussion, focused on property negotiations related to the Simes House.
Meeting Minutes:
Key Decisions & Votes: * Motion: Grant the position of Town Moderator Special Municipal Employee designation. Outcome: Approved 4-1. Notes: Concerns raised about potential conflicts of interest. (Timestamp: 2:52:27)
Major Topics Discussed: * Public Comment on Outdoor Recreation: Community members emphasized the importance of preserving trails and promoting outdoor activities as a means to enhance Plymouth’s economy. (Timestamp: 3:02:31) * Discussion of New BMW Dealership Approval: The Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) approved a conditional permit for a new BMW dealership to be located at Colony Place. (Timestamp: 3:14:54)
Public Comment: Numerous speakers emphasized the need for preserving open space and the potential economic benefits of developing recreational trails. They highlighted the community's active participation and the importance of environmental stewardship.
Action Items & Next Steps: Continue discussions regarding the Special Municipal Employee designation policy and its implications in future cases. Explore public feedback on land use and tourism opportunities in connection with open space and recreational facilities.
The next meeting will delve further into these topics, providing residents with an ongoing platform for engagement and discussion.