PLYMPTON - December 22, 2025 - In a move to bolster local mental health resources without impacting the tax rate, the Board of Selectmen voted unanimously to enter an Inter-Municipal Agreement (IMA) with Kingston and Halifax for shared clinician services. The board authorized the use of approximately $4,500 in opioid settlement funds to cover Plympton’s share of the program’s startup costs.
The Full Story
The Selectmen approved joining a regional collaborative spearheaded by the Town of Kingston, which has secured grant funding to hire a mental health clinician. This professional will serve as a shared resource for the police departments of Kingston, Halifax, and Plympton.
Town Administrator Liz Dennehy explained that the program mirrors a previously successful partnership with Carver. The clinician will not replace first responders but will serve as an “adjunct,” providing critical follow-up services for residents involved in mental health-related calls or those seeking advocacy and support.
“It makes our intentions known that we’re willing to participate, subject to availability of the opioid settlement funds... We’re exploring the possibility, but we still have the right to refuse if we don’t [have the funds].” — Town Administrator Liz Dennehy [04:32]
The board structured the vote carefully to protect the town’s finances. Participation is contingent on the availability of opioid settlement funds—money paid to the town from nationwide lawsuits against pharmaceutical companies—rather than the general operating budget. Plympton’s initial contribution is estimated at $4,521, while Halifax will pay roughly double that amount, and Kingston will manage the grant funding.
In related business, the board also authorized the use of a small portion of these settlement funds for the “LEAD program,” (Law Enforcement Against Drugs & Violence) specifically to purchase educational materials and books for students at the Dennett Elementary School.
Why It Matters
For residents, this agreement means specialized mental health support will be available during police interactions or for post-crisis follow-up, potentially reducing repeat emergency calls. By funding the initiative through opioid settlement money and a regional grant, the town expands its public safety capabilities with zero impact on the property tax rate.
Official Minutes & Data
Key Motions & Votes
Motion: To approve 2026 Liquor, Common Victualler, and Auto/Scrap Metal licenses (including Upland Sportsman’s Club, Angel’s Auto Parts, etc.) with existing conditions.
Outcome: Passed
Vote: Unanimous [02:29]
Motion: To enter the Inter-Municipal Agreement (IMA) with Kingston and Halifax for regional clinician services, subject to town counsel review and availability of opioid settlement funds.
Outcome: Passed
Vote: Unanimous [08:40]
Motion: To authorize the Police Department to utilize opioid settlement funds for LEAD program supplies and the startup costs for the regional clinician IMA.
Outcome: Passed
Vote: Unanimous [11:05]
Motion: To appoint Emma Wick to the Agricultural Commission (Term ending 6/30/2028) and Debra Batson to the Community Preservation Committee (Term ending 6/30/2027).
Outcome: Passed
Vote: Unanimous [11:51]
Public Comment
Mark Wallis raised a concern regarding the removal of the “matters not anticipated by the Chair” item from the agenda, which previously allowed for open questions. He argued this change limits public participation.
Dennehy responded that the removal was on the advice of Town Counsel to ensure strict compliance with Open Meeting Law. She explained that discussing topics not explicitly posted on the agenda could deprive residents of the knowledge that a subject is being debated. Residents may still request items be placed on future agendas by contacting the Selectmen’s office.
What’s Next
Budget Season: Town Administrator Liz Dennehy reported that departments are currently submitting both “level services” and “level funded” budget requests. A more substantial budget update is expected in January.
Next Meetings: The board will meet next on January 12, 2026 (likely at 1:00 PM) and January 26, 2026.