Discover Barnstable - the Official Podcast of the Town of Barnstable

In this episode of Discover Barnstable, host Lynne Poyant sits down with Chief Chris Beal, Barnstable Fire Department, and Steve Rizzo, Owners Project Manager to discuss the plans for a new fire station. Chief Beal shares insights into the department's vision and why the new station is a necessary step for better serving the community. Steve Rizzo walks us through the design process, the steps needed to get the project approved by district voters, and what to expect from this important construction project. They also break down the proposed costs and the move of the water department, making this an exciting and informative conversation about the future of Barnstable's emergency services.

https://www.barnstablefire.org/

On this episode of Discover Barnstable, we’re joined by Jesse Schechtman, Director of Golf Operations, and James Barnes, Director of Golf Maintenance, to discuss the exciting developments at Barnstable’s golf courses. From recent upgrades to the courses to their commitment to sustainable practices, Jesse and James provide an inside look at how the Town of Barnstable is enhancing the golf experience while keeping environmental responsibility at the forefront. Tune in to learn about the latest improvements, how they’re working to protect the environment, and the future of Barnstable’s golf operations.

https://www.barnstable.golf/

On this episode of Discover Barnstable, we sit down with Krissanne Caron, Assistant Director of Community Services for the Town of Barnstable. Krissanne, a Barnstable native, shares her journey from volunteering at the Kennedy Rink to earning her degree in Recreation and Physical Education and eventually returning home to serve her community. We discuss the many facets of the Community Services Department, Krissanne’s passions for her work, and the programs that make a real impact in Barnstable.

https://townofbarnstable.us/Departments/CommunityServices/

In this episode, we are joined by Hannah Vandivier, Field Supervisor for the Greening Hyannis Program. We talked to Hannah about the exciting initiatives of the Greening Hyannis program, an effort aimed at planting 2,400 trees throughout Barnstable’s Environmental Justice areas. Discover how this program, funded by the Greening the Gateway Cities Grant, benefits local neighborhoods by enhancing tree canopies, improving air quality, creating wildlife habitats, and offering natural shade that helps reduce energy costs. We also explore how residents within the planting zone can receive free trees, along with the variety of trees available, and best practices for tree care.

https://greeninghyannis.com/

On this episode, the second in a 2-part series, Lynne Poyant sits down with Superintendent of Schools Dr. Sara Ahern while she takes us through the current budget challenges and the strategies being put in place to navigate them, ensuring that resources are effectively allocated to benefit Barnstable students. We also dive into the district’s facility’s needs, exploring the current state of our buildings and the plans for improvements to create an environment conducive to learning.

https://www.barnstable.k12.ma.us/

On this episode, the first in a 2-part series, Lynne Poyant sits down with Superintendent of Schools Dr. Sara Ahern, to discuss the exciting developments in our school district. Dr. Ahern shares her vision and goals for the current school year, focusing on enhancing Early Literacy (K-5) and strengthening math instruction in grades 6-12. We also dive into the strengths of the district, from the diverse offerings at BHS to the growing connections between BIS and BHS. Dr. Ahern sheds light on efforts to recruit and retain talented faculty and staff through local opportunities and "grow your own" initiatives. Finally, we explore the district’s Community Mentor Program, which is making a significant impact on students and local engagement.

https://www.barnstable.k12.ma.us/

Join us for an insightful episode as we sit down with our newly appointed Town Assessor John Curran to discuss the important role of the Assessing Division and its impact on our community. In this episode, we’ll take a deep dive into the process of property assessments and how the Assessing Division ensures fair and accurate valuations.

On this episode we’re joined by our Natural Resources Director Nina Coleman to discuss some exciting updates and important initiatives that impact both our community and our pets. We’ll cover:

1.     A new online system for registration that makes it easier for residents to sign up and stay up to date.

2.     New dog regulations designed to keep our furry companions safe and well-managed in our neighborhoods.

3.     Vaccinations and their crucial role in ensuring the health and safety of our pets and public.

4.     Reuniting lost dogs with their owners, highlighting the efforts being made to bring pets home safely.

Tune in for practical insights and tips on how you can get involved and help make our community a better place for pets and people alike!

Dog License: https://barnstablema.mooringinfo.com/ndr/menu.php 

Dog Regulations: https://townofbarnstable.us/Departments/AnimalControl/Dog_Regulations/Approved-Dog-Regulations-1162024.pdf

On this episode, Town Clerk Ann Quirk, discusses the significance of the annual town census. The town census plays a vital role in ensuring accurate population data, which is used to allocate resources, determine funding, and plan services for the community. Ann emphasizes the importance of participation and highlights the legal and logistical aspects of conducting the census, as well as how the data is used for things like local elections and emergency response planning.

https://townofbarnstable.us/Departments/TownClerk/

On this episode, we are joined by Town Manager Mark Ells. With over 35 years of dedicated service to the town, Mark has seen it evolve in countless ways and has played a key role in its growth. He became Town Manager in 2016 and has worked to improve the community, navigate challenges, and help shape the town’s future.

Mark shares insights from his extensive career, reflects on the changes Barnstable has experienced, and discusses the important work that goes into managing a thriving town. Whether you’re a local resident or just curious about the behind-the-scenes of municipal leadership, this episode offers a fascinating look at public service and community-building at its best.

Links:

https://townofbarnstable.us/Departments/TownManager/