Finance committee to draft letter asking why Barnstable County uniquely carries Cape & Islands child advocacy services

Barnstable County’s finance committee authorized staff to draft a letter asking the leadership of Children’s Cove — the Cape & Islands Child Advocacy Center — for a written accounting of funding sources, the history of county involvement, and whether the county holds legal or financial obligations that other Massachusetts counties do not.

Committee members pressed for clarity after Finance and administration staff said current operations on both islands are covered largely by grants and foundation support. County administrator Owen Dutton told the committee that the Cove’s office space on both islands is provided at no cost and that "staff time and travel expense" are being covered by grants and contributions from regional foundations.

Delegates raised long-term concerns about liability and the county’s role. "We're the only county that's actually carrying a CAC," Delegate O’Malley said, saying Barnstable appears to shoulder responsibilities that elsewhere fall under district attorney offices or hospitals. Several delegates urged the committee to explore alternative partners and funding sources, including Cape Cod Healthcare and community development funds, and to confirm whether the District Attorney’s office receives state funding for CACs at the same level as other districts.

The committee asked staff to provide a concise list of active grants, their amounts and what each grant funds, and to document whether the county’s support is temporary or represents an ongoing obligation. The clerk and administrative staff (including Clark Fletcher and Emma) will draft the letter and return it to the committee for a formal vote.

On a roll-call vote the finance committee approved the motion to authorize drafting the letter; the clerk will circulate the draft and schedule a brief follow-up meeting or written vote for final approval.