The Plymouth Select Board established a unified tax rate for the upcoming fiscal year, navigating a landscape where residential property values have climbed by $6 billion over the last five years. During the November 18 meeting, Director of Assessing Michael Han detailed a proposed unified rate of $12.55 per thousand dollars of value for FY2026, marking a 14-cent decrease from the current year despite rising assessments. Han explained that 86% of the town’s total valuation now stems from residential properties, with the average single-family home valued at $615,944. In five years, we have gained $6 billion in residential value, Han noted, though he indicated the market may be cooling, with only a 5% increase this year compared to previous double-digit spikes.

The board deliberated on whether to implement a split tax rate to shift the burden toward commercial owners but ultimately declined to do so. Member Deborah Iaquinto observed that a split rate would have minimal impact for residents but could discourage new commercial enterprises. Vice Chair David Golden, attending virtually, concurred, stating, I'm in support of a unified rate. We don't have a large enough commercial base to bear the brunt of a shift. Member William Keohan expressed concern over the broader housing market, noting, We are building housing that very few people who live here can afford. I'd like to see more exemptions for seniors. Motion Made by K. Canty to adopt a unified tax rate and not adopt additional exemptions. Motion Passed (5-0)

Economic support took center stage as Stephen Cole, Executive Director of the Plymouth Foundation, announced a significant new investment in local storefronts while presenting a proclamation for Small Business Saturday. Cole revealed a $500,000 small business facade program, which will provide matching grants up to $50,000 for projects in the downtown and waterfront areas before expanding to other villages. Small businesses are the nerve center of our economy, Cole said, highlighting that 53% of local businesses employ fewer than four people. Acting Chair Richard Quintal emphasized the need for better coordination, stating, I just want to make it known that we need to fix the missing link between the town, the foundation, and the planning departments. We need to go after the businesses we want. Motion Made by K. Canty to approve the proclamation of November 29th as Small Business Saturday. Motion Passed (5-0)

The board also authorized a new annual all-alcohol restaurant license for the Giri Freeport Cambria Hotel at 26 Plaza Way. General Manager Samantha Thompson described the 107-guest room facility as featuring an on-site restaurant and 1,100 square feet of meeting space. We are looking to open a restaurant in the evening to allow liquor to be sold, Thompson told the board. Motion Made by K. Canty to approve the application. Motion Passed (5-0) In other financial matters, Treasurer/Collector Patricia Mehan secured authorization for an interim loan from the Massachusetts Clean Water Trust for Title 5 projects. Motion Made by K. Canty to approve the loan document. Motion Passed (5-0)

Community service was highlighted through the presentation of the Edward W. Santos Community Service Award to Dale Weber. Michael Gallerani of the award committee showcased the new Santos Community Garden at the library, noting the project’s $150,000 value. Our 2025 award honoree is someone who sees something that needs help and he steps up, Gallerani said of Weber. Weber, a long-time town meeting representative and former union president, accepted the honor with humility. It's the volunteers in the COBRA group that make this happen, not me, Weber said. Vice Chair Golden added that Weber works incredibly hard for the constituents.

Town Manager Derek Brindisi conducted a public lottery for the Senior and Veterans Property Tax Work-off program, reporting that applications jumped from 70 last year to 115 this year. The program allows 30 participants to work off up to $1,500 of their tax bill. Human Resources Director Jackie Gurney explained the placement process, noting, We reach out to every department, including schools. We work with the assessor's office to clear everyone.

During public comment, several residents raised local concerns. Rich Serkey, a Town Meeting member, urged the board to take legal action regarding the long-stalled demolition of the "Berts" building, offering his services pro bono. I want to save the town legal fees and free up staff time, Serkey said. Resident Megan Ash expressed distress over reports of aggressive federal immigration enforcement, stating, I am concerned about ICE's unlawful behavior and how it affects our children. Additionally, Dale Bryan of the Climate Action Net Zero Committee advocated for a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), arguing that funding for a CERT will save the town costly expenses and potentially lives.

The board concluded with a report from the Department of Energy and Environment. Director David Gould noted that his department has secured $96 million in grants since 2001 and currently manages 6,000 acres of open space. Climate Resiliency Planner Michael Cahill reported that the town's energy conservation efforts are saving $25,000 annually. Member Kevin Canty requested a more detailed roadmap for future projects, noting, I'd like to see you back in January with a prioritized list. It's cheaper to invest in mitigation now than to respond to disasters later.