The Attleboro City Council meeting on May 22, 2025, focused on the potential hiring of an additional part-time staff member to better serve local residents, particularly in relation to the SHINE (Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Everyone) program. Council members discussed the complexities of funding and resource allocation, emphasizing the need to prioritize Attleboro residents without overextending the city’s budget.

During the meeting, officials highlighted that while there are formula funds available, the city cannot bear the financial burden of serving residents from Bristol County. The discussion underscored the importance of ensuring that resources are directed primarily towards Attleboro residents, especially as the current contract for SHINE services is set to expire on June 30, 2025.

Council members expressed concerns about the lack of a contract in place for the upcoming fiscal period, which could impact service delivery. If no agreement is reached, Attleboro would need to redirect residents from neighboring communities to their respective district offices for assistance.

The estimated cost for serving only Attleboro residents was discussed, with preliminary figures suggesting a need for a part-time position of about 10 to 15 hours per week. Current funding through Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds supports one SHINE counselor dedicated to Attleboro residents, but additional staffing may be necessary to meet growing demands.

The council also considered training opportunities for existing staff to help support SHINE services, indicating a proactive approach to addressing community needs while managing budget constraints. The meeting concluded with a commitment to monitor the situation closely as the city navigates these challenges.