PLYMOUTH - May 19, 2026 - Following a highly competitive municipal election, the newly reconstituted Plymouth Select Board took immediate steps to reshape its leadership and tone. In a 4-1 vote, the board elected Deb Iaquinto as its new chairperson, bypassing traditional seniority lines in an explicit effort to foster “healing” and bridge political divides that have strained the community over the past year.
The Full Story
The meeting opened with Town Clerk Kelly McElreath administering the oath of office to newly re-elected Select Board members Richard Quintal and Kevin Canty. Both members expressed profound gratitude to the community for their support during what they described as an intense and taxing election season.
Immediately following the oaths, the board initiated its annual reorganization. Outgoing Chair David Golden moved to nominate Iaquinto for the position, stating that the town needs a leader who can “bridge the divides that have happened over the last 12 months”. Board member Bill Keohan counter-nominated Kevin Canty for the seat. However, Canty declined the nomination, urging his colleagues to unite behind Iaquinto.
“I think that in the circumstances that we’re in, that the best course forward would be if we could unify behind Ms. Iaquinto. I think that she brings a fresh perspective.” [28:56] — Kevin Canty
The final roll call vote installed Iaquinto as Chair with unanimous approval. The board subsequently elected Richard Quintal to serve as Vice Chair in a 4-1 vote, with Canty dissenting.
