Barnstable County commissioners voted on Nov. 26, 2025, to authorize Ordinance 2025-13, the county adoption of the Cape Cod Commission Regional Policy Plan 2025, following a presentation by Christie Sanatore, executive director of the Cape Cod Commission.

Sanatore told the commissioners the plan before the board is the final draft approved previously by the Cape Cod Commission on Oct. 16 and by the Assembly of Delegates on Nov. 19. "I am pleased today to share with you the final draft of the regional policy plan," Sanatore said, and she summarized outreach that included a 60-day public comment period the commission extended by 30 days. "During that public comment period, we received more than 100 comments," she said, and staff added language responding to common themes, including stronger references to ponds and biodiversity, new language recognizing Cape Cod’s finite resources and growth constraints, increased aquifer-protection planning and recommended actions on open space, water protection and housing.

Commissioners offered mostly praise. Commissioner Ron said he appreciated the months of work by staff and public stakeholders and expected the Assembly’s action to follow. Commissioner Mark moved to authorize Ordinance 2025-13 and said the plan was "above and beyond" in its update and coverage of key issues; Commissioner Ron seconded the motion.

The meeting record includes roll-call statements that "Forrest votes aye" and "Lyon votes aye." The transcript does not record other individual roll-call votes for this motion, and the minutes therefore reflect the recorded ayes as documented during the vote. The motion was authorized as recorded during the meeting.

Sanatore thanked the board for its support and offered to return for follow-up. The chair also announced a separate community meeting on Monday at 5 p.m. at the Harbour Lounge in Provincetown with Damien Archer, CEO, to discuss cuts affecting the Outer Cape health organization.

The board took no further public-comment testimony on the ordinance, and the meeting adjourned after brief closing remarks and holiday wishes.