Brookline public meetings in 2023

Library Trustees

The Brookline Library Trustees Buildings and Grounds Committee is meeting to discuss new business, including an EV charging station and an Eagle Scout project. The agenda is otherwise procedural, with no votes or detailed proposals listed.

• Discussion of EV charging station
• Discussion of Eagle Scout project

MLK Celebration Committee

The MLK Celebration Committee is meeting to approve prior minutes and continue planning the 2024 MLK event, including finalizing a timeline, discussing the printed program, and confirming promotional distribution. The agenda is focused on event logistics and follow-up actions.

• Approve 12/15/23 meeting minutes
• Finalize 2024 MLK event timeline
• Discuss printed program for 2024 MLK event
• Finalize distribution of event promotional materials
• Review follow-ups and action items

The committee approved the 12/15/23 minutes and discussed the 2024 MLK event performance with artists Regie Gibson and Guy Mendilow. They reviewed the program timeline, including increasing Dr. Guillory's time, and planned a media site visit with the Coolidge. They agreed to print programs by January 8th and to distribute promotional materials in early January.

• Approved 12/15/23 minutes
• Discussed performance logistics with CCT, including a 2-hour load-in and sound check minimum
• Noted an extra $250 cost for a sound engineer
• Reviewed program timeline and increased Dr. Guillory's time
• Scheduled a media site visit with the Coolidge
• Programs to be printed by January 8th
• Promotional email and social media blast to be sent next week, with posters distributed over the next week

Planning Board

The Brookline Planning Board is holding a virtual meeting to review four sign and façade cases, including a new illuminated sign for a restaurant, a final design review for a two-family dwelling addition, new signs for a rock-climbing gym, and a mural for a restaurant. Public comment on non-agenda matters is also scheduled.

• 411 Harvard Street: Replace wall sign with illuminated sign for Zhangliang Malatang restaurant
• 59-61 Mason Terrace: Final design review for remodel and additions to two-family dwelling
• 880 Commonwealth Avenue: New blade signs and façade improvement for rock-climbing gym
• 1634 Beacon Street: Mural on brick façade for Bartaco

The Brookline Planning Board approved a sign for Zhangliang Malatang, a mural for Bartaco, and a sign for a rock-climbing gym, all with conditions. It also recommended approval of a remodel at 59-61 Mason Terrace with conditions, despite concerns about massing and parking. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved revised sign plans for 411 Harvard Street (Zhangliang Malatang) unanimously, with conditions
• Recommended approval of remodel at 59-61 Mason Terrace (3-1-1), with conditions
• Approved sign plans for 880 Commonwealth Avenue (rock-climbing gym) unanimously, with conditions
• Approved mural plans for 1634 Beacon Street (Bartaco) unanimously, with conditions

Advisory Council of Public Health

The Brookline Advisory Council on Public Health is meeting to discuss and possibly vote on its public comment policy, along with board development, the 2024 meeting schedule, and director's reports. The agenda is largely administrative, with the public comment policy vote being the only substantive action item.

• Discussion and possible vote on ACPH Public Comment Policy
• Approval of October 18 and November 15, 2023 meeting minutes
• Board development discussion
• 2024 meeting schedule
• Director's and division reports

The Advisory Council of Public Health unanimously approved a public comment policy, allowing emailed comments screened by staff and forwarded to members, with the chair able to extend comment periods. The council also approved the 2024 meeting schedule and agreed to host at least one thematic public health session per semester. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included reports on ongoing projects.

• Approved public comment policy as amended (unanimous)
• Approved 2024 monthly meeting schedule (unanimous)
• Agreed to host at least one thematic public health session per semester
• Approved minutes for October 18, 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes for November 15, 2023 (unanimous)

Retirement Board

The Brookline Retirement Board is meeting virtually to discuss pension fund matters, including a preliminary PRIM update, an ADR update, the FY25 appropriation, the 2024 budget, and November financial reports. The board will also approve prior meeting minutes, pension payroll, refunds, transfers, and expenses. This is a routine administrative meeting with no major policy decisions expected.

• November Preliminary PRIM Update
• ADR Update
• PERAC Pension Fraud Prevention Campaign
• FY25 Appropriation
• Budget 2024

Board of Assessors

The Brookline Board of Assessors is meeting to handle routine administrative matters, including approving minutes, reviewing correspondence, and taking action on abatement applications, tax exemptions, and possible contract signings. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific items listed.

• Review and take action on abatement applications
• Review and take action on statutory exemptions
• Review and take action on applications for exemption per G.L.Ch.59§5(3)
• Review and sign contracts for services, if any
• Review proposed changes in assessment/valuation standards

The Board of Assessors approved and signed two Fiscal Year 2024 warrants: one for personal property at $5,912,901.22 and one for real estate at $292,060,659.36. They also approved and signed the C.P.A. warrant for $2,920,606.59, granted 79 personal exemptions, and approved three real estate abatements related to appellate tax board cases. The board approved the minutes of the December 5, 2023 meeting.

• Approved FY2024 personal property warrant of $5,912,901.22
• Approved FY2024 real estate warrant of $292,060,659.36
• Approved FY2024 C.P.A. warrant of $2,920,606.59
• Granted 79 FY2024 personal exemptions
• Granted 3 real estate abatements (FY2020, FY2021, FY2023) in final settlement of ATB cases
• Approved minutes of December 5, 2023 meeting

Zero Emissions Advisory Board

The Zero Emissions Advisory Board is meeting to continue its discussion of a strategic emissions reduction plan for the town. The agenda includes a public comment period and the ongoing plan discussion, with no votes or final decisions listed.

• Continued discussion of a strategic emissions reduction plan
• Public comment period

The Brookline Zero Emissions Advisory Board discussed a draft spreadsheet ranking about 50 climate actions and agreed to seek feedback from Climate Action Brookline and Mothers Out Front. No formal decisions were made; the board will continue reviewing the draft before the next meeting.

• Reviewed draft 'Climate Actions Prioritization 2023-24' spreadsheet (no vote)
• Agreed to solicit comments from Climate Action Brookline and Mothers Out Front
• Scheduled next meeting for January 2, 2024, in Town Hall

Select Board

The Brookline Select Board will consider a wide range of items, including approving multiple contracts for public works projects, hiring authorizations, license transfers and renewals, and a home rule petition on rent control. The agenda includes a public hearing on license renewals and a separate hearing on marijuana license renewals.

• Contract PW/23-23 'Sewer System Repairs' with C. Naughton Corp. for $593,750
• Contract PW/24-14 with Tighe and Bond for Upper Washington Street Corridor design, $385,590
• Contract PW/24-08 'Vision Zero Action Plan' with Toole Design Group, $198,000
• Housing Choice Grant of $95,700 for Comprehensive Plan
• Transfer of liquor license to Grand India at 1671 Beacon Street

The Select Board approved a new $20,000 annual fee for marijuana licenses and renewed four retail cannabis licenses. The board also authorized several public works contracts and approved multiple hiring requests for town departments.

• Adopted $20,000 annual marijuana license fee (4-0)
• Approved marijuana license renewals for Comm Ave Canna, Mission Cannabis, Sanctuary Medicinals, and NETA (5-0)
• Approved $593,750 sewer system repairs contract with C. Naughton Corp. (4-0)
• Approved $385,590 Upper Washington Street Corridor contract with Tighe and Bond, Inc. (4-0)
• Approved $303,065 water meter replacement services contract with Weston & Sampson Engineers (4-0)
• Approved $305,230 sewer system rehabilitation design contract with Beta Group, Inc. (4-0)
• Approved $198,000 Vision Zero Action Plan contract with Toole Design Group (4-0)
• Voted to transmit Rent Control home rule petition to State Legislative Delegation (4-0)

School Committee

The Brookline School Committee's Finance and Curriculum Subcommittees are holding a joint hybrid meeting to review summer programs, BHS course catalog changes, and budget implications of class sizes. They will also approve meeting minutes, gifts, and grants, and receive an update on the town's CIP and operating budget.

• Review of 2023 Summer Programs and Preview of 2024 Summer Programs
• Presentation on BHS Course Catalog Changes, including Budget Implications
• Budget Implications of BHS Class Sizes
• Approval of Gifts
• Approval of Grants

The Curriculum Subcommittee recommended adding an African American Studies course for AP/Honors credit to the 2024-2025 BHS catalog. The Finance Subcommittee recommended accepting several federal grants and two private gifts. Members also reviewed preliminary FY25 budget deficits and 2024 summer programming.

• Recommended approval of AP/Honors African American Studies course for 2024-2025 (4-0)
• Recommended acceptance of $3,872 gift from Lawrence School PTO and $1,000 gift from Health Resources in Action (4-0)
• Recommended acceptance of $2,446,210 IDEA Special Education Entitlement Grant (4-0)
• Recommended acceptance of $71,147 federal Perkins Grant (4-0)
• Recommended acceptance of $40,365 federal Early Childhood Special Education grant (4-0)
• Recommended acceptance of $2,000 Special Olympics Massachusetts grant (4-0)
• Approved November 28, 2023 Curriculum Subcommittee minutes (4-0)
• Approved November 7, 2023 Finance Subcommittee minutes (3-0)

Preservation Commission

The Brookline Preservation Commission will hold a public hearing on December 19, 2023, to consider two demolition requests: full demolition of a house at 47 University Road and lifting the stay of demolition for a house at 285 Warren Street. The commission will also review a Certificate of Appropriateness application for changes to a porch, chimney, and windows at 22 Oakland Road in the Pill Hill Local Historic District. Staff will provide an update on 129 Walnut Street and discuss Brookline Village National Register District architectural standards.

• Full demolition application for house at 47 University Road (applicant Samuel Sokol Margolis)
• Request to lift stay of demolition for house at 285 Warren Street (applicant Robert Allen)
• Certificate of Appropriateness for 22 Oakland Road (Pill Hill LHD): replace side porch, remove chimney, replace windows
• Staff update on 129 Walnut Street
• Discussion of Brookline Village National Register District architectural standards

The Commission upheld the determination of significance for a house at 47 University Road to oppose full demolition. It approved a request to lift a demolition stay for work at 285 Warren Street and partially approved alterations at 22 Oakland Road.

• Upheld determination of significance for 47 University Road (6-0)
• Approved request to lift demolition stay for 285 Warren Street (6-0)
• Approved porch expansion at 22 Oakland Road but denied chimney removal and skylights (6-0)
• Continued window replacement application for 22 Oakland Road (6-0)
• Formed empowered subcommittee for 22 Oakland Road window review (6-0)
• Approved amended minutes for 10/17, 11/7, and 12/4 meetings

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Brookline Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a virtual public hearing to continue a Comprehensive Permit application by CH Realty Ventures LLC to February 13, 2024. No testimony or discussion will take place at this meeting. The project proposes a 6-story, 96-unit residential building with 25% affordable units at 621 & 615 Hammond Street and adjacent properties.

• Comprehensive Permit under M.G.L c.40B for 96-unit residential development
• 25% of units affordable at 80% Area Median Income
• 67 garage parking spaces, 3 at-grade spaces, 52 bicycle spaces
• Lot size: 29,540 SF in M-1.0 and G-1.0 Zoning Districts
• Hearing continued to February 13, 2024

The Zoning Board of Appeals held a virtual public hearing and continued the Heath/Sheafe Comprehensive Permit case without discussion to February 13, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. No substantive decisions were made; the only action was the continuance.

• Continued Heath/Sheafe Comprehensive Permit hearing to Feb. 13, 2024

Pierce School Building Committee

The Pierce Playground Design Review Committee is meeting to continue design discussions for the Pierce School playground. The agenda includes follow-up items from the November 27 meeting, such as the north side of School Street, a sun/shade analysis for the school garden, playground layout modifications, and bike parking count. The committee will also review materials, site furnishings, playground equipment, and planting design.

• Follow-up on north side of School Street
• School garden sun/shade analysis
• Playground layout modification
• Bike parking count
• Discussion of site furnishings, playground equipment, and planting design

The committee reviewed updated playground designs including materials, site furnishings, equipment, and planting plans, with no formal votes taken. Decisions were limited to confirming bike/scooter parking counts and scheduling a final meeting for January 22, 2024.

• Confirmed 66 bike and 20 scooter parking spaces (unanimous)
• Scheduled final committee meeting for January 22, 2024 (unanimous)

Town / School Partnership Committee

The Town/School Partnership Committee will meet to approve minutes, review the FY25 forecast, and continue discussions on shared services with updates from building working group meetings. They will also receive a school building projects update and consider future meeting dates.

• Approval of September 18, 2023 meeting minutes
• FY25 forecast review
• Shared services discussion with updates from two building working group meetings
• School building projects update
• Potential future meeting dates: Jan 15, Feb 19, Mar 18

Community Preservation Act Committee

The Community Preservation Act Committee is meeting to review received CPA applications, discuss the process going forward, and get an overview of CPA finances. The committee will also approve minutes, take public comment, and set anticipated meeting dates for Winter/Spring 2024. This is a procedural and planning meeting for the committee's upcoming funding cycle.

• Review of received CPA applications and amounts requested
• Overview of CPA finances
• Discussion of application review process going forward
• Anticipated meeting dates for Winter/Spring 2024 (Jan 8 through Jun 10)

The Community Preservation Committee reviewed 16 received CPA applications and established working groups to evaluate them, with at-large members reviewing all applications alongside area-specific members. The committee discussed but did not finalize whether to add a fourth funding category for Recreation, and no projects were approved at this meeting.

• Approved minutes from 10/30/2023 (6-0-1 abstention)
• Established working groups to review 16 CPA applications
• Assigned members to working groups: housing, recreation, historic preservation, open space
• Discussed adding a fourth funding category for Recreation; no decision made

Metro Public Health Collaborative

The Metro Public Health Collaborative Advisory Board is meeting to discuss updates and vote on several items, including designating a Chair/Co-Chair, approving prior meeting minutes, setting the 2024 meeting cadence, and approving FY24 procurement of items or services. The board will also hear an introduction from a MAPC lead field trainer and discuss employment logistics for regional specialists and a shared nurse.

• Potential vote on designating Advisory Board Chair/Co-Chair
• Vote to approve prior meeting minutes
• Discussion and potential vote on meeting cadence for 2024
• Discussion and vote to approve procurement of FY24 item(s) and/or service(s)
• Discussion on employment logistics for Regional Specialists and Shared Nurse

The Metro Public Health Collaborative approved three FY24 procurements (MoJin Solutions contract for Newton HHS, and workspace supplies for shared inspectors in Newton and Belmont), tabled a fourth (RELEVANT inspectional software) for more information, and unanimously approved a 12-month rotating chair/co-chair term and a structured 2024 meeting cadence. The board also approved prior meeting minutes and discussed regional staffing, training, and shared nurse logistics.

• Approved MoJin Solutions contract for Newton HHS food inspections ($12,100 one-time) (unanimous)
• Approved workspace supplies for shared inspector in Newton ($3,090.50 one-time) (unanimous)
• Approved workspace supplies for shared inspector in Belmont ($2,017.38 one-time) (unanimous)
• Tabled RELEVANT inspectional software procurement ($89,200 annual) for more information (unanimous)
• Approved 12-month rotating chair/co-chair term, starting with Natasha as Chair and Wes as Co-Chair (unanimous)
• Approved structured 2024 meeting cadence with details to be confirmed (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from November 17, 2023 meeting (unanimous)

MLK Celebration Committee

The MLK Celebration Committee is meeting to approve prior minutes and continue planning the 2024 MLK event, including updates on speakers, finalizing the program timeline, poster distribution, and discussing 'Spotlights' features. The agenda is mostly procedural and planning-focused, with no major decisions or financial items listed.

• Approve minutes from 12/7/23 meeting
• Updates on Dr. Guillory and Regie for 2024 MLK event
• Discussion of final program timeline
• Finalize poster distribution
• Discussion of 'Spotlights' including Brookline for the Culture

The committee approved the minutes from December 7, 2023. Members discussed logistical details for the MLK Celebration scheduled for January 15, 2024, including securing performance rights, finalizing speaker abstracts, and arranging technical support for musical performances. No new policies or budgetary decisions were made; the meeting focused on planning tasks and scheduling the next meeting.

• Approved 12/7/23 minutes
• Confirmed MLK Event date: Jan 15, 2024 at 3PM
• Tasked Rob Daves with drafting Event Press Release
• Tasked Caitlin Starr with creating Program Timeline
• Set next meeting for Dec 21, 2023 at 11:30AM

Local Emergency Planning Committee

The Brookline Local Emergency Planning Committee's Public Education and Information subcommittee is meeting remotely to review updates and approve items. They will discuss the Select Board's approval of by-laws and membership, the 2023 Tier II reporting update, and the Hazardous Materials Emergency Plan (HMEP). The committee will also review and approve the public warning and emergency information for the HMEP and the annual public notice.

• Review and approve Public Warning & Emergency Information for HMEP
• Review and approve Annual Brookline LEPC Public Notice
• Update on Select Board approval of by-laws and membership slate
• Calendar 2023 Tier II reporting update
• Update of Hazardous Materials Emergency Plan (HMEP)

The Brookline Local Emergency Planning Committee's Public Education and Information Committee met and unanimously approved two documents: the Public Warning & Emergency Information message templates for the Hazardous Materials Emergency Plan and the LEPC Annual Public Notice. The committee also discussed updates on Tier II reporting and the Hazardous Materials Emergency Plan draft.

• Approved Public Warning & Emergency Information message templates (unanimous)
• Approved LEPC Annual Public Notice (unanimous)

Select Board

The Brookline Select Board is meeting to review priorities from its summer workshop, hear a presentation on the FY2025 financial forecast and preliminary Capital Improvements Plan, and discuss town priorities including sustainability, ARPA funds, housing stability, and town-school partnerships. The board will also enter executive session to discuss litigation strategy and upcoming union negotiations.

• FY2025 Financial Forecast and preliminary Capital Improvements Plan presentation by Deputy Town Administrator Melissa Goff and Finance Director Lincoln Heineman
• Discussion of Select Board priorities including Sustainability Division, American Rescue Plan Fund Update, Office of Housing Stability, and Town/School Partnership
• Executive session on litigation strategy and upcoming negotiations with Town unions

The Select Board voted unanimously to adopt a vision statement for the town. The board also received a presentation on the FY2025 financial forecast and capital plan, and discussed priorities including sustainability, ARPA funds, and housing stability. No other formal decisions were made.

• Adopted vision statement (5-0)
• Entered executive session for litigation and union negotiations (5-0)

School Committee

The Brookline School Policy Review Subcommittee will meet to review minutes and discuss possible votes on two policies: inclusion in life of the school activities and a revised wellness policy. The meeting is open to the public in person or via Zoom.

• Review/approval of November 20, 2023 joint subcommittee minutes
• Discussion and possible vote on Inclusion in Life of the School Activities Policy
• Discussion and possible vote on Revised Public Schools of Brookline Wellness Policy

The Policy Review Subcommittee unanimously approved sending the revised Wellness Policy to the full School Committee for a first reading. The subcommittee decided not to advance the draft Inclusion in Life of the School Activities Policy, citing the need for additional review by third-party providers and parent groups. The committee also approved the minutes from a previous joint meeting.

• Approved November 20, 2023 joint meeting minutes (3-0)
• Advanced revised Wellness Policy to full School Committee for 1st Reading (3-0)
• Held draft Inclusion in Life of the School Activities Policy for further partner review

School Committee

The Brookline School Committee will hold a regular meeting with votes on several policy revisions, including a third reading of the Substance Use Prevention and Education Policy and first readings of the Wellness Policy and an inclusion policy. The committee will also review MCAS data, discuss hiring and diversity efforts, and consider contracts for school repairs and a design cost estimate.

• Vote on contract with LeMessurier Engineering for Brookline High School structural and waterproofing repairs, $119,430.00
• Pierce School MSBA Project Amendment No. 4 with Leftfield LLC, design development cost estimate, $52,800.00
• First reading of proposed revision to PSB Wellness Policy (A 9)
• Third reading and possible vote on Substance Use Prevention and Education Policy (I 3 e)
• First reading of proposed Inclusion in Life of the School Activities Policy

The Brookline School Committee approved a $119,430 contract with LeMessurier Engineering for structural and waterproofing repairs at Brookline High School, and approved the consent agenda including a $52,800 amendment for the Pierce School project. The committee also held a first reading of a revised Wellness Policy, with edits to be incorporated into a new draft for a second reading and vote at a future meeting. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved $119,430 contract with LeMessurier Engineering for BHS repairs (7-0-1)
• Approved consent agenda including $52,800 Pierce School contract amendment (7-0-1)
• Approved student trips to Crawford Notch and Middlebury (7-0-1)
• Held first reading of revised Wellness Policy; no vote taken

Preservation Commission

A subcommittee of the Brookline Preservation Commission will meet remotely to discuss the lighting plan at 96 Crafts Road. The meeting is open to the public and will be held via ZoomGov.

• Review of lighting plan at 96 Crafts Road

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Brookline Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a virtual public hearing on three appeals: a proposal to demolish a single-family home at 80 Vernon Street and build a four-story, eight-unit multifamily building with below-grade parking; a request to add a parking space within the front yard setback at 151 Mason Terrace; and a request to expand a driveway and create three parking spaces at 261 Walnut Street. The board will also approve minutes and conduct other business.

• 80 Vernon Street: demolish single-family home, construct 4-story, 8-unit multifamily with below-grade parking
• 151 Mason Terrace: add parking space within front yard setback
• 261 Walnut Street: expand driveway and create 3 parking spaces
• Public comment accepted; advance submissions encouraged

The Board approved a proposal to demolish a single-family home and construct an 8-unit, four-story building with below-grade parking. The approval includes relief from yard and setback regulations, contingent on several conditions including a final landscape review and a rodent control plan.

• Approved 8-unit multi-family project at 80 Vernon Street (3-0)
• Continued 151 Mason Terrace parking request to February 8, 2024
• Continued 261 Walnut Street driveway expansion request to January 25, 2023

Commission for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Community Relations

The Brookline Commission for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Community Relations is meeting remotely to review past meeting minutes, discuss the role of its chairperson, and identify commission goals for the year. The agenda also includes comments on Town Meeting, liaison updates, and a public comment period. This is a working session focused on internal operations and planning rather than specific policy decisions.

• Review of minutes from October and November public hearings
• Discussion of the role of the Chairperson
• Identifying Commission goals for the year (40 minutes)
• Comments regarding Town Meeting
• Public comment period (10 minutes)

Brookline Commission for the Arts

The Brookline Commission for the Arts is meeting to approve minutes from prior meetings and conclude its review of 2024 Local Cultural Council (LCC) grant applications. The agenda is otherwise procedural, with no other substantive items listed.

• Approval of minutes from November 1 and December 6, 2023 meetings
• Conclusion of 2024 LCC grant application review

The Brookline Commission for the Arts approved partial funding of $1,000 for the Poly-Nation event, which is 50% of the Coolidge rental cost, despite funding not yet being secured. The commission also reduced all $2,000 grants for 2024 to $1,900 to free up funds for the poet laureate program and Poly-Nation, passing the motion with four in favor and one abstention. Discussion on grant priorities and application improvements was tabled to February 7.

• Approved $1,000 partial funding for Poly-Nation (50% of Coolidge rental)
• Reduced all 2024 LCC grants from $2,000 to $1,900
• Passed motion to fund 2024 LCC grants at new levels (4-1, one abstention)
• Tabled discussion on grant priorities and application process to February 7

Planning Board

The Brookline Planning Board will hold a virtual meeting to discuss four Zoning Board of Appeals cases involving home additions and alterations, and to elect a chair and clerk. The meeting includes public comment on non-agenda matters.

• 56 Baker Circle: second-floor addition and remodel of single-family home
• 12 Edwin Street: second curb cut at rear of existing driveway of multi-family building
• 160 Reservoir Road: second-floor addition and garage enlargement of single-family dwelling
• 33 Verndale Street (continued): addition and remodel of single-family home
• Election of chair and clerk

The Planning Board voted 4-2 to recommend approval of the addition and remodel at 33 Verndale Street, subject to conditions. Three other cases (56 Baker Circle, 12 Edwin Street, 160 Reservoir Road) were continued for more detailed plans. The Board also elected Blair Hines as Chair and Andrea Brue as Clerk.

• Recommended approval of 33 Verndale Street addition/remodel (4-2)
• Continued 56 Baker Circle second-floor addition for more refined plans
• Continued 12 Edwin Street second curb cut proposal
• Continued 160 Reservoir Road addition/garage enlargement for more detailed plans
• Elected Blair Hines as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Andrea Brue as Clerk (unanimous)

Human Resources Board

The Brookline Human Resources Board will review three new positions and reclassifications in the Town Administrator's office and DPW, discuss HR policies, and handle routine business like approving minutes and updates. The meeting is open to the public via Zoom.

• Communications Officer – Town Administrator's office
• Budget Analyst/Grants Administrator – Town Administrator's office
• Supervisor of Fleet & Facilities Services – DPW
• HR Policies Discussion and Review
• Approval of Minutes and HR Updates

The Brookline Human Resources Board approved three job reclassifications and one retitle, all by unanimous 3-0 votes. The Board retitled the Community Engagement Specialist to Communications Officer at MMTP T-6, reclassified the Budget Analyst/Grants Administrator to MMTP T-9, and reclassified the Supervisor of Fleet & Facilities Services to MMTP T-10. The Board also approved the minutes from the November 8, 2023 meeting.

• Approved retitle and reclassification of Community Engagement Specialist to Communications Officer at MMTP T-6 (3-0)
• Approved reclassification of Budget Analyst/Grants Administrator at MMTP T-9 (3-0)
• Approved reclassification of Supervisor of Fleet & Facilities Services at MMTP T-10 (3-0)
• Approved minutes from November 8, 2023 meeting (3-0)

Select Board

The Brookline Select Board will hold public hearings and possible votes on two utility pole/conduit relocation petitions (Eversource/Verizon on Centre Street, Crown Castle/Verizon on Hawes Street), several liquor license transfers and new licenses for Beacon Street restaurants, and a new lodging house agent at 16 Williams St. All items are up for approval or discussion at this meeting.

• Public hearing on Eversource/Verizon pole relocation at 40 Centre Street (pole P.5 moved ~12 ft southeast)
• Public hearing on Crown Castle/Verizon conduit installation on Hawes Street (~148 ft from manhole 215A)
• Transfer of All Alcohol license to Grand India at 1671 Beacon St; new manager Ganesh Ramaswamy; 25 seats
• New All Alcohol license for SSaanjh at 1012 Beacon St (formerly Punjabi by Naturee); manager Ishaan Kaushal
• New lodging house agent Christopher Parks at The Price Center/Humanity House, 16 Williams St

The Select Board Licensing Panel recommended approval of all applications before it, including two utility pole/conduit grants, four liquor license transfers or changes, and a new lodging house agent. No public speakers testified at any hearing, and no votes were taken beyond the panel's recommendations.

• Recommended approval of Eversource/Verizon pole relocation on Centre Street
• Recommended approval of Verizon/Crown Castle conduit installation on Hawes Street
• Recommended approval of All Alcohol and Common Victualler license transfer to Grand India at 1671 Beacon St.
• Recommended approval of new All Alcohol license and DBA change to SSaanjh at 1012 Beacon St.
• Recommended approval of manager/officer changes for Hamilton at 1366 Beacon St.
• Recommended approval of new lodging agent Christopher Parks at 16 Williams St.

Council on Aging

The Brookline Council on Aging is meeting in hybrid format to hear a guest speaker discuss the Massachusetts Behavioral Health Helpline, a new service staffed by trained clinicians and certified peer specialists. The agenda also includes committee reports, updates from the Select Board and School Committee, and the director's report, with no major decisions or votes listed.

• Guest speaker Ashleigh Miller presenting on Massachusetts Behavioral Health Helpline
• Nominating Committee report by Yolanda Rodriguez
• Springwell Report by Judy Chasin
• Budget Committee report by Ruthann Dobek
• Report from Select Board by John VanScoyoc

The Brookline Council on Aging held a hybrid meeting featuring a presentation on the Massachusetts Behavioral Health Help Line. The council accepted the minutes from the November 8, 2023 meeting with two edits. No formal votes were taken on substantive policy matters; the meeting was primarily informational and procedural.

• Accepted minutes of November 8, 2023 meeting with two edits (unanimous)

Brookline Commission on Disability

The Brookline Commission on Disability is meeting to approve minutes, receive updates from the Transportation Board, Select Board, and ADA Coordinator, and hear presentations from IT's James Pouliot and a library ASL classes funding request from Lily Weitzman. No new variances are on the agenda.

• October and November 2023 minutes approval
• Transportation Board Liaison Update
• Select Board Update
• ADA Coordinator update
• Library ASL classes funding request

The Brookline Commission on Disability voted unanimously to provide $2,000 to the Brookline Public Library for a series of 10 American Sign Language classes, with the library covering the remaining $2,000. The commission also approved the October 2023 minutes, tabled the November minutes, and received updates on website accessibility and other matters.

• Approved $2,000 for library ASL classes (6-0)
• Approved October 2023 minutes (5-0-1)
• Tabled November 2023 minutes

Zero Emissions Advisory Board

The Zero Emissions Advisory Board is meeting to continue discussion of a strategic emissions reduction plan. The agenda includes a public comment period and adjournment, with no votes or decisions listed.

• Public comment period
• Continued discussion of strategic emissions reduction plan

The Zero Emissions Advisory Board met and discussed collaborating with other Brookline groups, heat pump economics and financing, and developing a near-term (1-3 year) action plan building on prior plans. No formal decisions or votes were recorded; the meeting was procedural and discussion-focused.

• No formal decisions or votes recorded

Library Trustees

The Brookline Library Trustees are meeting to discuss routine reports and old business, including a review of the Parental Responsibility Policy. The agenda includes introductions, public comments, and reports from the director and committees.

• Review of Parental Responsibility Policy under Old Business
• Introduction of new Head of Reference, Jess
• Reports from Policy, DEI, and Staff Appreciation Committees
• Public comments limited to 5 minutes

The Board unanimously approved a revised Parental Responsibility Policy regarding unattended children and the involvement of the Brookline Police. The Board also approved the minutes from the November meeting.

• Approved updated Parental Responsibility Policy (Unanimous)
• Approved November meeting minutes (All present voted yes, 1 abstention)

Age Friendly Cities Committee

The Age-Friendly Cities Committee will review minutes and discuss ongoing pedestrian safety and micromobility regulations, as well as the role it can play in addressing housing availability and affordability for older adults. The committee will also set priorities and goals for 2024 and consider potential guest speakers, including the police chief and town administrator.

• Discussion of micromobility regulations and pedestrian safety update from Brian Kane
• Discussion of housing availability and affordability issues for older adults
• Potential guest speakers: Erin Chute (Public Works), Patty Sullivan (Dementia-Friendly MA), Charles Carey (Town Administrator), Jen Paster (Police Chief), Ben Kaufman (Town Clerk)
• Update on AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities and ReiMAgine Aging podcast
• Subcommittee reports on transportation, housing, health, library, Council on Aging, recreation, disabilities, communications

The Age-Friendly Cities Committee approved the November 14, 2023 minutes (9-0-0) and discussed priorities for 2024, including affordable housing, sidewalk repairs, street lighting, and in-home care. No formal votes were taken on these priorities; they were discussed as goals. The committee also noted that no micro-mobility regulations are currently planned, and that skateboarding and roller skating are no longer illegal.

• Approved November 14, 2023 minutes (9-0-0)
• Designated Matt Weiss as note taker
• Assigned co-hosting responsibilities to Matt Weiss and John Seay
• Discussed 2024 priorities including housing, sidewalks, lighting, and in-home care (no vote)

Building Commission

The Brookline Building Commission is meeting to discuss updates on several municipal construction projects, including the Pierce and Driscoll school projects, the Brookline High School expansion, and Fire Stations 1 and 4. The agenda also includes approval of meeting minutes and general project status updates.

• Pierce School Project – Leftfield
• Driscoll School Project – J. Levi, Leftfield, Gilbane
• BHS Expansion Update
• Fire station 1 & 4 project – Cambridge Seven
• Building Department Projects Status Updates

The Commission approved several contract amendments and monthly invoices for the Pierce, Driscoll, and Brookline High schools, as well as Fire Stations #1 and #4. A contract for structural repairs at the high school was approved, and a seven-day notice was issued to a contractor for failing to complete work at the high school.

• Approved Leftfield Contract Amendment #4 for $52,800 (5-0)
• Approved November 2023 Pierce School invoices for $786,872.44 (5-0)
• Approved November 2023 Driscoll School invoices for $1,190,267.21 (5-0)
• Approved Catalyst and WRA invoices for $7,504.07 (5-0)
• Approved LeMessurier contract for BHS structural and waterproofing repairs for $119,430 (5-0)
• Approved invoices for James McKenna and Art DiGiovanni for $18,601.78 (5-0)
• Approved Cambridge Seven Contract Amendment #1 for $165,015 (5-0)
• Approved Cambridge Seven invoice #37717 for $78,105.40 (5-0)

Park & Recreation Commission

The Park and Recreation Commission will hold its regular December meeting, starting with approval of prior minutes and public comment. Members will vote on chair/vice chair elections and appointments to the Amory and Schick Design Review Committees, then hear updates on the golf course capital plan, a Community Preservation Act application for the Bridle Path, and an invasive plant management presentation.

• Vote on chair and vice chair election
• Appointments to Amory Design Review Committee
• Appointments to Schick Design Review Committee
• Golf Course Capital Plan update and discussion
• Bridle Path Community Preservation Act application presentation and possible vote

The Commission elected a Chair and Vice Chair and appointed members to the Amory and Schick Design Review Committees. The board unanimously approved support for the Bridle Path Design and Engineering Project. Members also discussed the Golf Course capital plan and invasive plant management.

• Elected C. Bachelor as Chair (5-0)
• Elected T. Mooney as Vice Chair (5-0)
• Appointed Amory Design Review Committee members including Wyatt Brooks, Francine Pearler, and Philip Kramer (5-0, 1 abstention)
• Appointed Schick Design Review Committee members including Alex Middeleer, Hannah Baumbach, and Torrey Androski (5-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved support for the $3 million Bridle Path Design and Engineering Project (6-0)
• Approved November 8, 2023 minutes as amended (3-0, 1 abstention)

Conservation Commission

The Brookline Conservation Commission is meeting to review a request for determination of applicability for 1281 West Roxbury Parkway, which likely concerns wetland regulations. They will also consider a certificate of compliance for an order of conditions at 292 Warren Street. Staff will provide updates on the Community Preservation Act, climate change regulations, and the Open Space Plan.

• Public hearing: Request for Determination of Applicability at 1281 West Roxbury Parkway
• Certificate of Compliance for Order of Conditions DEP # 120-172 BWB 17-12 at 292 Warren Street
• Staff discussion: Community Preservation Act
• Staff discussion: Climate Change Regulation
• Staff discussion: Open Space Plan

The Commission voted unanimously to issue a negative 2 determination for the Request for Determination of Applicability at 1281 West Roxbury Parkway, allowing vegetation clearing in channels to improve drainage at the Brookline Golf Course, with conditions and a request for supplemental information. The Commission also voted to extend two Orders of Conditions for The Country Club and discussed but did not decide on a Certificate of Compliance for 292 Warren Street, preferring to wait for the Conservation Restriction to be finalized.

• Issued negative 2 determination for 1281 West Roxbury Parkway (6-0)
• Extended Orders of Conditions for The Country Club (6-0)
• Designated P. Harvey and R. Schnoor as CR review team (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of November 7, 2023 with minor modifications (5-0, 1 abstention)

Commission for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Community Relations

The Immigrant Advancement Committee of Brookline's Commission for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Community Relations is meeting to vote on minutes, receive updates, and discuss a welcome booklet, including proposed edits and next steps. The agenda is largely procedural and discussion-focused, with no major decisions or financial items listed.

• Vote on meeting minutes
• Updates and new business
• Welcome booklet: review of proposed edits
• Updates on focus groups
• Public comment period

Solid Waste Advisory Committee

The Brookline Solid Waste Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss and possibly vote on paint extended producer responsibility legislation, review recycling education and audit findings, and receive a DPW report on sanitation enforcement and school composting. The meeting includes public comment and approval of prior minutes.

• Discussion and possible vote on Paint Extended Producer Responsibility Legislation (Bills S.551/H.823 and S.542)
• Review of Big Belly Recycling Audit Findings
• Discussion on communication with renters and multi-unit residences
• 2023 Sanitation Enforcement Review
• School Composting Update

The Solid Waste Advisory Committee unanimously voted to send a letter requesting the Select Board endorse three state bills on paint extended producer responsibility. The committee also discussed recycling contamination issues and heard a DPW report on sanitation enforcement and school composting.

• Approved minutes of November 7, 2023 (6-0)
• Voted to send letter to Select Board endorsing paint EPR bills S.551/H.823 and S.542 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Housing Advisory Board

The Affordable Housing Overlay District Study Subcommittee of the Housing Advisory Board will meet virtually to review and approve October meeting minutes, receive an overview of the MBTA Communities Act rezoning passed by Town Meeting, and review the final Request for Proposals (RFP) for an AHOD consultant for Select Board consideration. The meeting also includes public comment and scheduling of future meetings.

• Review and approve meeting minutes from October 16th
• Overview of MBTA Communities Act rezoning passed by Town Meeting
• Review final Request for Proposals for AHOD consultant for Select Board consideration
• Public comment period
• Future meeting schedule

The Brookline Housing Advisory Board voted unanimously to approve a revised Request for Proposals (RFP) for an Affordable Housing Overlay District (AHOD) consultant, subject to further modifications by the Planning Department and procurement staff. The board also discussed the recent Town Meeting warrant article, which includes upzoning of the Harvard Street corridor, housing by right in M-districts, rezoning of the Hall Juniper property for 200+ public housing units, and rezoning of the Emerald Island district. The board decided to keep language allowing less than 100% affordability if not feasible, despite potential conflict with the warrant article's 100% affordable goal. They also agreed to skip the January meeting and meet next on February 12.

• Approved revised RFP for AHOD consultant, subject to further modifications by planning dept and procurement staff (unanimous)
• Decided to keep language allowing less than 100% affordability if not feasible, despite potential conflict with warrant article
• Decided to skip January meeting; next meeting set for February 12
• Held off on approving October 16 minutes; will approve at next meeting

Pedestrian Advisory Committee

The Brookline Pedestrian Advisory Committee will meet to discuss sidewalk and pedestrian issues with DPW staff, review whether prior no-right-turn-on-red recommendations increased pedestrian risks, and analyze safety at the Dean/Beacon/Corey intersection. The meeting also includes public comment, approval of prior minutes, and brief updates on other transportation matters.

• Discussion with DPW on sidewalk and pedestrian issues
• Review of prior no-right-turn-on-red recommendations for pedestrian risk
• Analysis of pedestrian safety at Dean/Beacon/Corey intersection
• Update on BU Bridge safety memo and Washington Street Design Review Committee
• Approval of minutes from October 30, 2023 meeting

The Pedestrian Advisory Committee met on December 11, 2023, and approved the October 30 meeting minutes (6-0-1). The meeting was primarily a discussion with DPW officials about sidewalk maintenance, trip hazards, and curb ramps, with no formal votes on policy. The committee also discussed 'No Turn on Red' recommendations, particularly at the Dean Road/Beacon Street intersection, and agreed to draft a memo for the Transportation Board to be voted on at the January 8 meeting.

• Approved October 30, 2023 meeting minutes (6-0-1, Vogt abstaining)
• Discussed sidewalk repair processes with DPW, including trip hazard response times and staffing shortages
• Agreed to draft a memo to the Transportation Board on No Turn on Red, with a vote planned for January 8
• Noted Transportation Board took no action on BU Bridge pedestrian safety memo due to lack of posting

Commission for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Community Relations

The committee approved the November meeting minutes. Members discussed updates to a welcome booklet, including adding hospitals and foreign license information, and reviewed language data for translation needs.

• Approved November minutes (5-0)

School Committee

The Climate and Sustainability Task Force of the Brookline School Committee is meeting remotely to review subgroup work to date and discuss new business. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific decisions or proposals listed.

• Review of Subgroup Work to Date
• New Business

The Climate and Sustainability Task Force coordination meeting on December 8, 2023, reviewed progress from its four work groups on inventorying existing sustainability assets. No formal decisions were made; the group tentatively agreed to complete a draft inventory by early February, followed by community feedback and a final inventory in early March. They also discussed adding quarterly updates to the superintendent's newsletter.

• Tentatively agreed to complete draft inventory by early February
• Tentatively agreed to hold two-week community feedback period
• Tentatively agreed to share final inventory in early March
• Discussed adding quarterly updates to Superintendent Guillory's newsletter

Preservation Commission

The Brookline Preservation Commission is meeting remotely to review Community Preservation Act applications in the Historic Preservation funding category. The agenda includes this review and other business, with no specific projects or dollar amounts listed.

• Review of Community Preservation Act applications in the Historic Preservation funding category

The Commission approved letters of initial support for roof repairs at All Saint’s Parish and window restoration at Devotion House. It requested more information before deciding on two separate proposals regarding Larz Anderson Park.

• Approved letter of initial support for 1773 Beacon Street roof repair (6-0, 1 abstain)
• Requested more information on Larz Anderson Cultural Landscape Report and Plan (7-0)
• Approved letter to CPAC supporting preservation in Larz Anderson Park while requesting more project information on the Former DPW Maintenance Yard study (7-0)
• Approved letter of support for Devotion House window restoration (4-0)
• No vote taken on Friedman Park acquisition proposal due to applicant absence

Lawrence School Site Council

The Lawrence School Site Council is meeting to review progress on the current School Improvement Plan (SIP) for 2022-2024 and begin planning for a new multi-year SIP to be approved in summer 2024. The new SIP will be driven by the District Strategic Plan, which is rolling out over the next several months. The meeting includes admin updates and open comment.

• Review of progress on SIP 21-23 with status markers (green/yellow/red)
• Review of SIP feedback sheet and update from Spring '22
• Planning for new SIP for approval in summer 2024
• New SIP driven by District Strategic Plan rollout
• Open comment period at end of meeting

Small Business Development Committee

The Brookline Art Makes Community (BAMC) committee is meeting to recap 2023 activities, review program updates for Art Around Town, Turkeys Around Town, and Murals Around Town, and discuss 2024 calls for art, a tentative timeline, and the meeting schedule. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• 2023 recap
• Program updates: Art Around Town, Turkeys Around Town, Murals Around Town
• 2024 calls for art
• Tentative 2024 timeline
• 2024 meeting schedule

MLK Celebration Committee

The MLK Celebration Committee is meeting to approve prior minutes and continue planning the 2024 MLK event, including finalizing a timeline, poster, and distribution plan. The agenda includes follow-ups and action items from previous discussions.

• Approve minutes from 11/30/23 meeting
• Finalize timeline for 2024 MLK event
• Finalize poster and distribution plan
• Discuss follow-ups and action items

The committee approved the 11/30/23 minutes and continued planning the MLK event on January 15, 2024. Margarita Guillory agreed to participate, with Bernard to meet her to discuss her role. Poster feedback was sent to Kristin for a proof, and the committee may need to pay a small cost to use 'Lift Every Voice.'

• Approved 11/30/23 minutes
• Confirmed Margarita Guillory's participation in MLK event
• Sent poster feedback to Kristin for proof
• Noted possible small cost for 'Lift Every Voice'

Library Trustees

The Brookline Library Trustees Programming Committee is meeting to discuss its bylaw mandate for developing community programs like Brookline Reads and one-off activities. The committee will also consider how non-trustee members, community partners, and staff fit into these efforts, and outline next steps. The agenda is procedural and discussion-focused, with no specific decisions or dollar amounts listed.

• Discussion of Programming Committee bylaw mandate for Brookline Reads and one-off programs
• Consideration of roles for non-trustee committee members, community partners, and staff
• Next steps for the committee

Library Trustees

The Brookline Library Trustees' Programming Committee is meeting to discuss how to carry out its bylaw mandate to develop community programs, including Brookline Reads and one-off activities. The committee will also consider how non-trustee members, community partners, and staff might fit into these efforts, and outline next steps. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Discussion of Programming Committee mandate under bylaws
• Planning for Brookline Reads program
• Discussion of one-off programs and activities
• Consideration of non-trustee members, community partners, and staff roles
• Next steps for committee

Brookline Early Education Program (BEEP) Site Council

The Brookline Early Education Program (BEEP) Site Council is meeting to discuss the School Improvement Plan, budget, extended day needs, and family engagement. The council will also approve minutes from its October 26, 2023 meeting and consider PTO auction items.

• Approval of minutes from October 26, 2023 meeting
• Discussion of School Improvement Plan
• Budget review
• Extended Day Needs discussion
• Family Engagement and PTO Auction items

Trustees of Walnut Hills Cemetery

The Walnut Hills Cemetery Trustees will review and possibly vote on Fiscal Year 2025 cemetery rates, an annual transfer from the Cemetery Lots/Graves Special Revenue Fund to the General Fund, and a Community Preservation Act application for tree master plan implementation. They will also discuss green burial study materials and cemetery staffing and budget.

• Possible vote on FY2025 Cemetery Rates
• Possible vote on annual transfer from Cemetery Lots/Graves Special Revenue Fund SW01 to General Fund
• Discussion and possible vote on Parks and Open Space Division Community Preservation Act application for Walnut Hills Cemetery Tree Master Plan Implementation
• Introduction to Green Burial study materials
• Review and discussion of Cemetery Staffing and Budget

The Trustees approved a two-year, $38,000-per-year Cemetery Business Assistant position funded from the TW23 trust, contingent on approval from Town Counsel and Human Resources. They also approved a letter of support for a Community Preservation Act tree maintenance proposal and the annual $100,000 transfer from the Cemetery Lots/Graves Special Revenue Fund to the General Fund. Rate increases for FY2025 were discussed but not voted on, with further study planned for the March meeting.

• Approved $38,000/year for two years from TW23 for Cemetery Business Assistant (3-1)
• Authorized Chair to write letter supporting CPA tree proposal (4-0)
• Approved $100,000 annual transfer from SW01 to General Fund (4-0)
• Approved September 20, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved October 4, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Brookline Planning Board is holding the second Design Advisory Team (DAT) meeting for a proposed new Porsche dealership at 1168-1172 Commonwealth Ave. The board will hear a presentation of revised plans, elevations, and program details, followed by DAT member and public comments. This is a design review discussion, not a final decision.

• Proposed new Porsche dealership at 1168-1172 Commonwealth Ave
• Second Design Advisory Team (DAT) meeting
• Presentation of revised plans, elevations, and program details
• Public comments on the proposal

The Design Advisory Team (DAT) reviewed revised site and building plans for a proposed Porsche dealership. Members expressed support for changes to the building's facade, signage, and dumpster relocation. The applicant was advised to submit a formal application to begin the official process with the Planning Board and ZBA.

Planning Board

The Brookline Planning Board is meeting virtually to hear public comment on matters not on the agenda and to receive a presentation of the preliminary design for the Pierce School. No votes or decisions are listed on this agenda.

• Public comment on matters not on the agenda
• Presentation of preliminary design for the Pierce School

The Brookline Planning Board met via Zoom on December 6, 2023, and received a preliminary design presentation for the Pierce School from the Miller, Dyer, Sears and Sasaki team. Board members and the public offered comments on the design, including concerns about the Harvard Street façade, garage access, traffic impacts on School Street, the amphitheater orientation, and the need for a grounds maintenance plan. No formal decisions or votes were taken; the meeting was adjourned after the discussion.

• No formal decisions or votes taken; meeting was informational and advisory only

Housing Advisory Board

The Brookline Housing Advisory Board meets remotely to discuss and possibly vote on supporting the Walnut High Street project with Community Preservation Act and additional Affordable Housing Trust funds, and to consider engaging a consultant for Phase 2 of a Nexus/Linkage Fee study. The board will also review prior meeting minutes, receive updates on the AHOD Subcommittee and Accessory Dwelling Units, and get a briefing on a new trial Zoom format.

• Possible vote to support Walnut High Street project with combined CPA and additional AHT funds
• Discussion and possible vote to engage consultant for Phase 2 of Nexus/Linkage Fee study
• Community Preservation Act (CPA) briefing
• AHOD Subcommittee update
• ADU update

The Housing Advisory Board voted to recommend the Select Board make a preliminary commitment of $3,750,000 from the Home and Housing Trust Fund for the Brookline Housing Authority's redevelopment project at 4 Walnut Street, with conditions including receipt of the Welltower payment and perpetual affordability restrictions. The board also approved proceeding with Part 2 of the Linkage Nexus Study, using $39,500 in Housing Trust Funds for consulting services. Both votes passed unanimously with one abstention.

• Approved recommendation for $3,750,000 preliminary commitment from Housing Trust Fund for Walnut-High project (7-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved proceeding with Part 2 of Linkage Nexus Study with $39,500 in Housing Trust Funds (7-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved minutes of November 1, 2023 meeting (7-0)

Park & Recreation Commission

The Brookline Park and Recreation Commission is holding a public hearing on an ice rink programming study. The agenda includes a presentation by Chris Collins of Edge Sports Group and discussion, with public input expected.

• Public hearing on ice rink programming study
• Presentation by Chris Collins, VP Edge Sports Group
• Hybrid meeting at Town Hall Room 111 and via Zoom

Brookline Commission for the Arts

The Brookline Commission for the Arts is meeting to review 2024 Local Cultural Council (LCC) grant applications, along with routine items like approving minutes and the treasurer's report. The main substantive item is the grant application review.

• Review of 2024 LCC Grant Applications
• Approval of November 1, 2023 meeting minutes
• Treasurer's report

Brookline Commission for Women

The Brookline Commission for Women is meeting to approve November minutes, hear public comment, and receive updates. A potential speaker from the Massachusetts Menstrual Equity Coalition may discuss advocacy on the IAM Bill, and the commission will review a letter response and project updates.

• Vote to approve November 2023 meeting minutes
• Public comment period for non-agenda issues
• Potential discussion of IAM Bill with Massachusetts Menstrual Equity Coalition
• Update on letter response
• BIG Project update

The Brookline Commission for Women approved the previous meeting minutes and confirmed March 20, 2024 as the date for the Woman of the Year Award at Hunneman Hall. The commission also discussed several ongoing initiatives, including menstrual advocacy, women-owned businesses, and a video series on women in civil service. No other formal votes were taken.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (Meenakshi and Hadassah abstained)
• Confirmed Woman of the Year Award date: March 20, 2024 at Hunneman Hall

Bicycle Advisory Committee

The Brookline Bicycle Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss and possibly act on a contraflow bike plan for Tappan Street, continue discussions on bike routes from South Brookline to Brookline High School, and review the Green Routes plan update. The agenda also includes routine business, election of a chair, and setting 2024 meeting dates.

• Discussion and possible action on BHS Tappan St contraflow plan
• Continued discussion on bike routes from South Brookline to BHS
• Discussion of Green Routes plan update
• Election of chair and 2024 meeting dates

The Bicycle Advisory Committee recommended a curb-stop contra-flow lane along Tappan Street and a floating parking bike lane option for Davis Avenue to the transportation board. The committee also discussed police accident reports and the status of the Green Routes plan.

• Recommended curb-stop contra-flow lane along Tappan Street to the transportation board
• Recommended Option 1 (floating parking) bike lane for Davis Avenue to the transportation board
• Re-elected Mitch Heineman as chair
• Maintained Wednesday at 7pm for 2024 meeting dates

Board of Assessors

The Brookline Board of Assessors is meeting to handle routine administrative business, including approving minutes, reviewing correspondence, signing warrants and contracts, and taking action on abatement applications, ATB case settlements, and statutory exemptions. The agenda is largely procedural, with most items conditional on whether any are pending.

• Review and take action on abatement applications
• Review and take action on ATB case settlements as recommended by staff
• Review and take action on statutory exemptions
• Review and take action on applications for exemption per G.L.Ch.59§5(3)
• Review proposed changes in assessment/valuation standards

The Board approved the minutes from November 21 and November 28, 2023. Members reviewed tax rate options and valuation charts to be provided to the Select Board regarding the Fiscal Year 2024 Residential Exemption.

• Approved November 21, 2023 meeting minutes
• Approved November 28, 2023 meeting minutes

Select Board

The Brookline Select Board will vote on the FY24 tax classification percentages and Residential Exemption rate, plus several contracts and hires. The board will also set the 2024 election date and discuss a sign policy for Town property.

• Vote on FY24 tax classification and Residential Exemption percentage
• Approve $205,226 contract with Brown and Caldwell for town-wide drainage model
• Approve $145,226 MVP Grant for flood risk assessment
• Approve $70,400 extra work order with North-Eastern Tree Service
• Approve $31,000 National Community Survey contract with Policy Confluence

The Select Board approved the FY24 tax classification, setting a 20% residential exemption and a residential factor of .923888, with corresponding tax rates of $9.77 residential and $16.41 commercial. They also approved several contracts and hires, including a $205,226 drainage model contract and a $31,000 community survey. The board adopted a revised policy on expressive outdoor fixtures on Town property, which was the subject of public comment.

• Approved FY24 tax classification with 20% residential exemption (5-0)
• Approved $205,226 contract with Brown and Caldwell for Town Wide Drainage Model (4-0)
• Approved $145,226 MVP Grant for drainage flood risk assessment (4-0)
• Approved $70,400 Extra Work Order #3 for North-Eastern Tree Service (4-0)
• Approved $31,000 contract with Policy Confluence for National Community Survey (4-0)
• Approved Fire Prevention fee schedule (5-0)
• Approved expressive outdoor fixtures policy as revised (5-0)
• Set 2024 Annual Town Election for May 7, 2024 (4-0)

Zero Emissions Advisory Board

The Zero Emissions Advisory Board is meeting to continue its discussion of a strategic emissions reduction plan. The agenda includes a public comment period followed by the plan discussion, with no votes or decisions listed.

• Public comment period
• Continued discussion of a strategic emissions reduction plan

The Zero Emissions Advisory Board met and discussed a strategic emissions reduction plan, reviewing past Climate Action Plans and agreeing to prioritize 'low-hanging fruit' actions with available funding. No formal decisions or votes were recorded; the board set a weekly meeting schedule and assigned members to prioritize actions from previous plans.

• Assigned Werner to prioritize 2012 CAP actions and Kathleen to prioritize 2018 CAP actions
• Set weekly in-person meetings through January 2024 (except Dec 26)
• Agreed to eliminate sections 5 & 6 from the recent plan for prioritization
• Nick to research decision-making for towns and consumers of clean energy products

School Committee

The Brookline School Capital Improvements Subcommittee is meeting to approve prior meeting minutes and discuss several capital projects, including the Clark Road Relocation Plan, Baldwin School Renovation, the CIP grant process, and leases for classroom expansion. This is a working session for the subcommittee, not a final decision-making body.

• Approval of minutes from July 11, August 22, and September 12, 2023 meetings
• Clark Road Relocation Plan
• Baldwin School Renovation
• CIP grant process
• Leases (Classroom Expansion Funds)

The Capital Improvements Subcommittee approved minutes from three prior meetings and received updates on relocating staff from 2 Clark Road and ongoing Baldwin School renovations. No major policy decisions were made; the meeting was primarily informational, with future decisions deferred.

• Approved July 11, 2023 meeting minutes (2-0, 2 abstentions)
• Approved August 22, 2023 meeting minutes (2-0, 2 abstentions)
• Approved September 12, 2023 meeting minutes (3-0, 1 abstention)

Library Trustees

The Brookline Library Trustees Policy Committee is meeting to discuss a parental responsibility policy, which is the main new business item. The meeting includes public comment and standard procedural items.

• Discussion of Parental Responsibility Policy
• Public comment period (5-minute limit)
• Comments from the Chair
• Remarks for the Good of the Order

Preservation Commission

The Brookline Preservation Commission holds a remote public hearing on December 4, 2023, to decide on demolition requests and Certificates of Appropriateness for changes to buildings in local historic districts. The agenda includes two demolition-related items and four applications for alterations within the Cottage Farm and Pill Hill Local Historic Districts. The meeting is fully remote via Zoom.

• 100 Woodcliff Road: application for full demolition of the house (Robert Allen, applicant)
• 12 Fairmount Street: request to lift the stay of demolition for the house (Shula Glazerman, applicant)
• 16 Chilton Street (Cottage Farm LHD): replace steel casement windows with new steel casement windows (Sarah & Paul Moghtader)
• 99 High Street (Pill Hill LHD): roof replacement (Gary Streck)
• 104 Walnut Street (Pill Hill LHD): install solar array and related mechanicals (Josue Cruz)

The Commission upheld a staff finding of significance for 100 Woodcliff Road, opposing its full demolition. Several other applications for home renovations and installations were approved, while a request for asphalt roofing at 99 High Street was denied.

• Upheld staff finding of significance for 100 Woodcliff Road (6-0)
• Approved partial demolition and remodel plans for 12 Fairmount Street (6-0)
• Approved replacement of steel casement windows at 16 Chilton Street (7-0)
• Approved copper roofing but denied asphalt roofing for 99 High Street (7-0)
• Continued case for solar array at 104 Walnut Street to a later hearing (7-0)
• Approved heat pump condenser installation at 60 High Street with painting conditions (7-0)

Economic Development Advisory Board

The Economic Development Advisory Board will meet via Zoom to recap the Town Meeting on the MBTA Communities Act and discuss next steps for implementing a ground-floor commercial incentive. The board will also discuss economic development metrics for a storefront survey report, receive updates on several studies and the linkage fee nexus study, and approve minutes from prior meetings.

• MBTA Communities Act Town Meeting recap and implementation of ground-floor commercial incentive
• Discussion of economic development metrics for storefront survey report
• Linkage Fee Nexus Study updates, including development and affordable housing projections
• Chestnut Hill Commercial Area Study and Centre Street Lot Study updates
• Approval of minutes from September and October meetings

The Economic Development Advisory Board discussed the MBTA Communities Act warrant article and recommended the Select Board adopt the Ground Floor Commercial Incentive by early March 2024. Members approved minutes for September 11 and 27, and deferred votes on October minutes. Staff reported on the Linkage Fee Study Phase II, Chestnut Hill study approval, and other updates.

• Recommended Ground Floor Commercial Incentive adoption by early March 2024
• Approved minutes for September 11 and 27
• Deferred vote on October 2 and 16 minutes
• Volunteered members to finalize GFCI guidelines with Planning staff

Police Commissioners Advisory Committee

The Brookline Police Commissioners Advisory Committee will meet to approve prior meeting minutes and a public hearing transcript, and to consider a new policy on public comment following abusive comments at the October 30, 2023 hearing. Members will also review civilian feedback survey responses, discuss the legal effect and criteria for "Letter of Good Conduct" requests, and receive working group reports on juvenile operations, body cameras, stop and frisk, and data. Future meeting dates through August 2024 are also on the agenda.

• Policy on public comment after abusive comments at Oct 30 public hearing
• Report on Civilian Feedback Survey responses
• Discussion of 'Letter of Good Conduct' – legal effect, criteria, issuance
• Working group reports: juvenile operations, body cameras (Warrant Article 23), stop and frisk, data
• Future meetings scheduled Jan–Aug 2024, including public hearing on BPD Annual Report Mar 25

The Police Commissioners Advisory Committee approved minutes from Oct. 2 and voted 6-0 to post a redacted version of the Oct. 30 public hearing transcript to the town website, noting it omits offensive speech and that unredacted versions are available upon request. Members discussed revising the public comment policy, focusing on legal definitions of obscene versus profane language and guidelines for cutting off off-topic comments, but took no vote. The next meeting is scheduled for Jan. 8, 2024.

• Approved Oct. 2, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved posting redacted Oct. 30, 2023 public hearing transcript (6-0)
• Adjourned at 8:40 p.m. (6-0)

Driscoll School Building Advisory Committee

The Driscoll School Building Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss a proposed change in playing field material by the Parks Department, construction and schedule updates from Gilbane, budget and quality updates, and playground concerns. The meeting also covers upcoming events including a ribbon cutting ceremony and building commission.

• Proposed change in playing field material by Parks Dept
• Construction and schedule updates from Gilbane
• Budget update
• Ribbon Cutting Ceremony scheduled for 12/4/23
• Building Commission scheduled for 12/12/23

Indigenous Peoples Celebration Committee

The Indigenous People's Celebration Committee is meeting virtually to approve prior minutes, gather feedback on recent events, re-vote on the next Book Club selection, and receive updates on Community Preservation Act (CPA) eligibility. The agenda is largely routine and procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Approval of minutes from 11/10/23
• Feedback on KoFM event and Thomas Green Presentation
• Discussion and re-vote on next Book Club book and date
• Updates on CPA eligibility (Felina and Shana)

The committee confirmed the selection of 'Blood Sisters' by Vanessa Lilly for a book club event on February 11. Members also debriefed recent presentations and established a new requirement for public comment at the start of future meetings.

• Confirmed 'Blood Sisters' by Vanessa Lilly for book club on Feb. 11 (Approved)
• Established public comment period at the beginning of each IPCC meeting

Planning Board

The Brookline Planning Board will hold a virtual meeting on November 30, 2023, to discuss recommendations on the Heath-Sheafe-Hammond 40B proposal and review several zoning board appeals, including driveway expansions, demolitions, and new construction. Public comment on non-agenda matters is also scheduled.

• 261 Walnut Street – expand driveway and create 3 parking spaces
• 641 Chestnut Hill Avenue – demolish house and construct new single-family dwelling
• 151 Mason Terrace – add parking spaces within front yard setback
• 80 Vernon Street – demolish single-family home and construct four-story multi-family structure with 8 units and below-grade parking
• Discussion of recommendations on Heath-Sheafe-Hammond 40B proposal

The Planning Board voted unanimously to recommend approval of the 80 Vernon Street project, a four-story, eight-unit multifamily building with below-grade parking, subject to conditions including final landscape plan review. The board also voted 6-1 to submit recommendations on the Heath-Sheafe-Hammond 40B proposal to the Zoning Board of Appeals. Two other cases—641 Chestnut Hill Avenue and 151 Mason Terrace—were continued for further discussion.

• Recommended approval of 80 Vernon St. site plan and architectural plans (unanimous)
• Approved submission of recommendations on Heath-Sheafe-Hammond 40B proposal (6-1)
• Continued 641 Chestnut Hill Avenue case for clarifications on easement and design
• Continued 151 Mason Terrace case for further discussion

Library Trustees

The Brookline Library Trustees' Staff Appreciation Subcommittee is meeting virtually to hear survey results and plan a staff appreciation party. The agenda is limited to party planning plus brief remarks, with no major policy decisions or budget items on the table.

• Review of survey results for Staff Appreciation Party
• Planning for Staff Appreciation Party
• Remarks for the Good of the Order

MLK Celebration Committee

The MLK Celebration Committee will meet to approve the minutes from the November 16 meeting and continue discussions and updates regarding the 2024 MLK event, including follow-ups and action items. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific decisions or proposals listed.

• Approve 11/16/23 minutes
• Continued discussion on 2024 MLK event
• Follow-ups and action items

The committee continued planning the MLK Celebration event scheduled for Monday, January 15, 2024 at 3PM. They discussed potential speakers, including Thomas Blakeslee and Professor Margarita Guillory, and outlined a run of show with video, performances, and poems. No final speaker was confirmed, and the committee agreed to follow up on several leads.

• Approved minutes from 11/16/23 meeting
• Scheduled next meeting for Dec 7 at 11:30AM
• Discussed potential speakers: Thomas Blakeslee, Margarita Guillory, Chad Williams, Imani Paris Jeffries
• Outlined run of show for MLK event (51-58 min total)
• Discussed music options including 'Lift Every Voice' and licensing with Folkway
• Planned poster using John Wilson sketch with proper acknowledgement

School Committee

The Brookline School Committee will hold its regular meeting on November 30, 2023, with a second reading and possible vote on FY25 Budget Guidelines. The agenda also includes a presentation and discussion of the October 1, 2023 Enrollment Report and a revised District Strategic Plan, along with public comment and subcommittee reports.

• FY25 Budget Guidelines (2nd reading and possible vote)
• October 1, 2023 Enrollment Report presentation
• Revised District Strategic Plan presentation and discussion
• Consent agenda: Brookline High School Project Change Order No. 12, Lambrian Construction, $39,360.00
• Consent agenda: Driscoll School Project Change Order No. 33, Gilbane Building Company, $52,997.00

The Brookline School Committee voted unanimously to approve the FY25-29 Budget Guidelines, which include provisions for addressing high school class sizes, expanding Extended School Year programming, and funding an educational equity strategy. The committee also approved consent agenda items including two construction change orders totaling $92,357. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included reports and discussions on enrollment and the district strategic plan.

• Approved FY25-29 Budget Guidelines (9-0)
• Approved BHS Project Change Order No. 12, $39,360 (9-0)
• Approved Driscoll School Change Order No. 33, $52,997 (9-0)

Commission for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Community Relations

The Commission for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Community Relations is meeting to review minutes from October and November public hearings, discuss the role of the chairperson, and identify commission goals for the year. The agenda also includes comments on Town Meeting, liaison updates, and public comment. This is a routine administrative and planning meeting with no specific decisions or votes listed.

• Review of minutes for October and November public hearings
• Discussion of the role of the chairperson
• Identifying commission goals for the year
• Comments regarding Town Meeting
• Liaison updates

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Brookline Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a virtual public hearing on November 30, 2023, to consider four extension-of-time requests for previously approved construction projects, including a garage demolition/reconstruction, a home addition, a dormer, and new parking spaces. The board will also vote on revisions to its own rules and regulations. Public testimony will be taken during the hearing.

• 7 Dana Street: extension for garage demolition and reconstruction (Case 2022-000052)
• 779 Washington Street: extension for 1.5-story addition with attached garage (Case 2022-000036)
• 610-612 Washington Street: extension for 32 sq ft dormer (Special Permit ZB-2022-000069)
• 107 University Road: create two parking spaces for existing three-family (Case ZB-2023-000047)
• Approval of revision to Zoning Board of Appeals Rules and Regulations

The Board unanimously approved special permit relief for 107 University Road to create two parking spaces, waiving setback requirements. It also granted one-year time extensions for construction projects at 7 Dana Street and 779 Washington Street. Additionally, the Board unanimously approved revisions to its Rules and Regulations to reflect electronic permitting and require lawn signs or placards for public notice.

• Approved special permit relief for 107 University Road parking (3-0)
• Approved one-year time extension for 7 Dana Street garage (3-0)
• Approved one-year time extension for 779 Washington Street addition (3-0)
• Approved revisions to Board of Appeals Rules and Regulations (3-0)
• Withdrawn time extension request for 610-612 Washington Street

Runkle School Site Council

The Runkle School Site Council will meet to approve prior meeting notes, hear a parent leader update, and discuss updates to the Runkle Handbook regarding behavior and academic policies, MCAS improvement plans, and the School Improvement Plan. The agenda also includes time for new agenda items for the 2023-2024 school year.

• Approve notes from October 25th meeting
• Parent Leader Meeting update
• Updates to Runkle Handbook re: Behavior and Academic Policies
• MCAS Plans for Improvement
• School Improvement Plan

Pierce School Building Committee

The Pierce School Building Committee is meeting to review the project budget, schedule, and design development. The agenda includes approving meeting minutes, a budget review, schedule overview, and a design development page turn, followed by public comment.

• Vote to approve meeting minutes from September 28, October 25, and November 2, 2023
• Project budget review
• Schedule overview
• Design development page turn

The committee approved meeting minutes from September, October, and November 2023. Members reviewed the project budget, current design drawings, and a projected timeline that targets school occupancy in January 2028.

• Approved meeting minutes from 9/28/23, 10/25/23 and 11/2/23

Transportation Board

The Brookline Transportation Board will discuss and vote on legalizing skateboards and non-motorized scooters, as well as several parking and traffic changes. The board will also consider appointments to advisory committees and a request for teaching parking permits.

• Vote on legalizing skateboards and non-motorized scooters (Article 9)
• Request to install 'No Turn on Red' signs at Beacon Street with Dean and Corey Road
• Request for 8 teaching parking permits and extended loading zone hours for Torah Academy
• Parking restriction changes: 384 Harvard Street, Stanton Road, and taxi stand removal at 1007 Beacon Street
• Appointments to Bicycle Advisory Committee and Washington Street Design Review Committee

The Brookline Transportation Board voted to remove a prohibition on skateboards and non-motorized scooters from the town's traffic rules, approved new appointments to two committees, and continued a 'No Turn on Red' pilot at Beacon Street. All votes were unanimous (6-0) with all members present.

• Approved removal of Article IX, Section 1 subsection A from Traffic Rules and Regulations (6-0)
• Appointed Barbara Gutman to Bicycle Advisory Committee for 3-year term (6-0)
• Appointed Stephanie Hsia and Johannes Epke to Washington Street Design Review Committee (6-0)
• Continued 'No Turn on Red' pilot at Beacon Street with Dean and Corey Road, to report back (6-0)
• Approved teacher parking program for Torah Academy (6-0)

Board of Assessors

The Brookline Board of Assessors is meeting to handle routine administrative business, including approving prior minutes, reviewing correspondence, and signing warrants and contracts. The board will also take action on abatement applications, ATB case settlements, and statutory exemptions, as well as discuss any proposed changes to assessment standards.

• Review and take action on abatement applications
• Review and take action on ATB case settlements
• Review and take action on statutory exemptions
• Review proposed changes in assessment/valuation standards
• Review and sign contracts for services

The Board of Assessors granted three real estate abatements in final settlement of appellate tax board cases for FY2019, FY2020, and FY2023. The Board also reviewed revised Tax Classification Hearing materials and discussed options for FY2024 tax rates, Residential Factor, and Residential Exemption. Later, the Board presented these options to the Select Board at the Classification Hearing.

• Granted abatement for FY2019 (ATB settlement)
• Granted abatement for FY2020 (ATB settlement)
• Granted abatement for FY2023 (ATB settlement)
• Signed summary of Overvaluation Abatements for each fiscal year

Select Board

The Brookline Select Board will meet to consider a range of administrative items, including hiring authorizations, change orders, and a noise bylaw waiver. The agenda also includes two public hearings: one on tax classification percentages for FY2024 and another on tree preservation rules and regulations. The board will also discuss a potential signage policy and special town meeting requests.

• Public hearing on tax classification percentages for FY2024 (7:00 PM)
• Public hearing on Tree Preservation Bylaw draft rules and regulations (7:30 PM)
• Change Order #12 with Lambrian Construction for $39,360.00 for HVAC work at the high school
• Change Order #33 with Gilbane Building Company for $52,997.00 for scope changes
• Noise bylaw waiver request from Shawmut Design and Construction for crane work at 850 Boylston Street

The Select Board voted to call a Special Town Meeting to address a citizen petition regarding a resolution on Israel. The board also approved the Tree Preservation Bylaw rules and regulations and authorized several municipal hires and contract change orders.

• Scheduled Special Town Meeting for Jan 17, 2024, regarding a resolution to stand with Israel
• Approved Tree Preservation Bylaw rules and regulations
• Authorized hiring for Recreation Leader/Assistant Aquatics Director, DPW managers, and Public Health Specialists
• Approved $39,360 HVAC change order with Lambrian Construction and $52,997 change order with Gilbane Building Company
• Approved $235,691 appropriation transfer for Police Department equipment, supplies, and training
• Authorized Town Administrator to sign MOU for Metro Public Health Collaborative
• Approved noise bylaw waiver for Shawmut Design and Construction at 850 Boylston Street
• Approved change in lodging agent to Jeanna Heezen for 1077 Beacon St.

School Committee

The Brookline School Committee's Curriculum Subcommittee will meet to discuss Brookline High School class sizes and the district's strategic plan. The meeting will also include approval of the previous meeting's minutes and new business.

• Discussion of Brookline High School Class Sizes
• Discussion of District Strategic Plan
• Approval of October 24, 2023 Curriculum Subcommittee Meeting Minutes

The Curriculum Subcommittee approved the October 24 minutes and reviewed a draft of the District Strategic Plan, requesting revisions to benchmarks and accountability measures. The committee also examined data showing an increase in Brookline High School class sizes due to enrollment growth and staffing cuts.

• Approved October 24, 2023 Curriculum Subcommittee minutes (4-0-0)

Tree Planting Committee

The Brookline Tree Planting Committee is meeting to review its agenda and minutes, discuss the Front Yard Tree Planting Program's standard operating procedures and checklist, consider front-yard tree applications, and review the spring planting list. The meeting is a working session with staff updates and no public hearings or major financial decisions on the agenda.

• Update on Front Yard Tree Planting Program
• Discussion of SOP and Checklist
• Front Yard Tree Applications Discussion
• Review of Spring Planting List
• Staff update

The Tree Planting Committee reviewed the final draft of the Standard Operating Procedures for the Front Yard Tree Planting Program, discussed applications, and reviewed the spring planting list. No formal votes were taken on these items; the committee will proceed with the bid process and ordering unless concerns arise. Staff updates covered the Driscoll School project, nursery stock, and other tree-related activities.

• Approved meeting minutes (motion by H. Mattison, seconded by L. Erdman)
• Reviewed final draft of Front Yard Tree Planting Program SOP; no formal vote
• Assigned Front Yard Tree applications to committee members
• Discussed spring planting list; will proceed with bid process and order unless concerns
• Adjourned meeting (motion by H. Mattison, seconded by L. Erdman)

Park & Recreation Commission

The Park and Recreation Commission is holding the third design review meeting for the Skyline Phase 2 project. They will discuss project goals, a proposed path along Incinerator Drive, new site furnishings, meadow planting, comfort station and shelter repairs, tree conditions and replacements, a potential off-leash dog park, and cost estimates. The meeting includes community feedback and a possible vote on the final concept design.

• Proposed path along Incinerator Drive
• New site furnishings and meadow planting
• Comfort station and shelter repairs
• Potential off-leash dog park
• Cost estimate and possible vote on final concept design

Pierce School Building Committee

The Pierce Playground Design Review Committee is meeting to discuss the overall schedule and process, receive landscape design updates, and review green infrastructure plans for the playground. The meeting is open to the public via Zoom.

• Landscape design updates
• Green infrastructure discussion
• Overall schedule and process review

The Pierce School Playground Design Review Committee met on November 27, 2023, to review landscape design updates, green infrastructure plans, and the overall schedule. No formal votes or decisions were made; the meeting was informational, with discussions on playground layout, planting, public access, and equipment. The next meetings are scheduled for December 18, 2023, and January 22, 2024.

• No formal decisions or votes taken at the meeting
• Schedule update: Early Release Package bids due 3/18/24, construction starts 7/8/24, new school opens 1/1/28
• Sasaki confirmed no synthetic turf planned for the site
• Variance being pursued for stairs connecting to Harvard Street
• Project to go before Transportation Board in February 2024 for final design approval

Library Trustees

The Brookline Library Trustees DEI Committee is meeting to discuss the Carter Development Group report, an inclusive library checklist, and implementation of overall DEI goals. The agenda is discussion-focused with no votes or decisions listed; first steps and next steps are also on the agenda.

• Discussion/review of Carter Development Group report
• Discussion of Inclusive Library Checklist
• Discussion of implementation of overall DEI goals
• First steps and next steps

Planning Board

The Brookline Planning Board is meeting to consider a Comprehensive Permit application from CH Realty Ventures LLC for a 6-story, 96-unit residential development at 621 & 615 Hammond Street, 8, 14, & 18 Sheafe Street, and 545 Heath Street. The board may make a recommendation to the Zoning Board of Appeals on the project, which includes 25% affordable units, parking, and bicycle spaces. The meeting is noticed because a quorum of the Planning Board may be present at the Zoning Board of Appeals hearing.

• Comprehensive Permit application for 96-unit, 6-story residential building
• 25% of units affordable at 80% Area Median Income
• 67 garage parking spaces, 3 at-grade spaces, 52 bicycle spaces
• Site: 621 & 615 Hammond St; 8, 14, & 18 Sheafe St; 545 Heath St
• Planning Board may make recommendation to Board of Appeals

Zero Emissions Advisory Board

The Zero Emissions Advisory Board (ZEAB) is meeting in person to hold public comment and discuss its actions and priorities. The agenda is brief, with no votes or specific proposals listed. The meeting is scheduled to adjourn at 6:00 PM.

• Public comment period
• Organizational discussion of ZEAB actions and priorities

The Zero Emissions Advisory Board held a discussion-only meeting, with no formal votes or decisions recorded. Members agreed in principle to develop a plan and strategy, and identified focus areas including buildings, transportation, electricity, and waste. The board discussed shifting toward an advisory role and scheduled a next meeting for December 5th.

• No formal votes taken; all discussion only
• Members assented to developing a plan and strategy (no vote)
• Identified focus areas: buildings, transportation, electricity, waste
• Scheduled next meeting for December 5th in person

Board of Assessors

The Brookline Board of Assessors is meeting to handle routine administrative matters, including approving minutes, reviewing correspondence, signing warrants and contracts, and taking action on abatement applications, ATB case settlements, and statutory exemptions. The agenda is largely procedural, with most items conditional on whether any such matters arise.

• Review and take action on abatement applications
• Review and take action on ATB case settlements
• Review and take action on statutory exemptions
• Review and take action on applications for exemption per G.L.Ch.59§5(3)
• Review proposed changes in assessment/valuation standards

The Board of Assessors approved the minutes from their November 15, 2023 meeting. They reviewed presentation material for the upcoming Tax Classification Hearing with the Director of Finance. No substantive decisions were made beyond the minutes approval; the classification hearing is scheduled for November 28, 2023.

• Approved minutes of November 15, 2023 meeting
• Reviewed Tax Classification Hearing presentation material

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Brookline Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a virtual public hearing on a Comprehensive Permit application from CH Realty Ventures LLC under M.G.L c.40B. The proposal is for a 6-story, 96-unit residential building with 25% affordable units, parking, and bike spaces on a 29,540 SF lot at 621 & 615 Hammond Street; 8, 14, & 18 Sheafe Street; and 545 Heath Street. The board is deciding whether to grant the permit for this development.

• Comprehensive Permit application under M.G.L c.40B by CH Realty Ventures LLC
• 96 apartment units, 25% affordable at 80% Area Median Income
• 67 garage parking spaces, 3 at-grade spaces, 52 bicycle spaces
• 6-story building on 29,540 SF lot in M-1.0 and G-1.0 Zoning Districts
• Project site: 621 & 615 Hammond St; 8, 14, & 18 Sheafe St; 545 Heath St

School Committee

The Brookline School Committee's Policy Review and Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Justice (DEIJ) Subcommittees will hold a joint remote meeting. They will discuss and possibly vote on an Inclusion in the Life of School Activities Policy, hear a presentation on equity policy regarding staff recruitment and retention, and discuss a definition of anti-Semitism. The agenda also includes approval of prior meeting minutes and new business.

• Discussion and possible vote on Inclusion in the Life of School Activities Policy
• Presentation and discussion on Equity Policy-Staff Recruitment and Retention, Outcome Measurement and Reporting Requirements
• Discussion on Definition of Anti-Semitism
• Approval of June 12, 2023 Joint Meeting Minutes and October 16, 2023 Policy Subcommittee Minutes

The joint subcommittees discussed a draft policy on student inclusion in school activities but did not vote on it, instead requesting revisions to clarify accommodation responsibilities. They also discussed a request to adopt the IHRA definition of anti-Semitism, receiving public comments for and against, but took no vote. Additionally, the committee noted that required annual equity data on staff hiring and retention was not provided due to HR staffing changes, with a new report promised for mid-December.

• Approved June 12, 2023 joint meeting minutes (3-0-1)
• Approved October 16, 2023 Policy Review minutes (4-0-0)
• Tabled vote on Inclusion in Life of School Activities Policy for revised draft
• Discussed IHRA anti-Semitism definition; no vote taken
• Noted missing 2023 equity data due to HR staffing changes
• Scheduled mid-December data delivery and January review meeting

Library Trustees

The Brookline Library Board of Trustees is meeting to conduct routine business, including reports from the chair, public comments, and committee updates. The board will also discuss and potentially act on a Parental Responsibility Policy and review vault materials for deaccession.

• Review of Parental Responsibility Policy
• Review vault materials for deaccession
• Public comments (5-minute limit)
• Reports from Treasurer and Library Director
• Committee reports: Investment, Policy, Development, Finance

Retirement Board

The Brookline Contributory Retirement System board will hold a virtual meeting to review investment updates (PRIM and ADR), discuss a PTG agreement and invoice, and approve prior month's minutes, pension payroll, refunds, transfers, and expenses. The agenda is largely routine financial and administrative business.

• October PRIM update
• ADR update for F. Marnell, E. Gallagher, C. Mah/M. Gray
• PTG agreement and invoice
• October bank reconciliations, trial balance, cash YTD
• Approval of prior month's minutes, pension payroll, refunds, transfers, expenses

Indigenous Peoples Celebration Committee

The Indigenous People's Celebration Committee is meeting virtually to approve minutes from the previous meeting, finalize planning for a discussion of Flowers of the Killer Moon at HH, and receive updates on CPA eligibility. The agenda also includes new or other business and scheduling the next meeting.

• Approval of minutes from 11/10/23
• Final planning of Flowers of the Killer Moon discussion at HH
• Updates on CPA eligibility
• New/Other Business and Updates
• Next meeting scheduling

Metro Public Health Collaborative

The Metro Public Health Collaborative Advisory Board is meeting to discuss updates, vote on adopting posting methods required by state regulation, hear a presentation on data project interviews, and discuss items or services needed for FY24 procurement. The agenda also includes employment discussions and new business.

• Vote on adoption of posting methods complying with 940 CMR 29.03(3)
• Discussion on items/services needed for FY24 procurement
• Presentation on data project interviews and project proposal process
• Staff updates on job/reimbursement request forms and regional trainer/training hub

The Metro Public Health Collaborative voted unanimously to adopt posting methods complying with 940 CMR 29.03 (3). Members also discussed FY24 procurement needs and established a screening process for upcoming inspectional staff hiring.

• Adopted posting methods complying with 940 CMR 29.03 (3) (unanimous)

Preservation Commission

A subcommittee of the Brookline Preservation Commission is meeting remotely to discuss landscaping at 96 Crafts Road. The meeting is open to the public and will be held via Zoom.

• Discussion of landscaping at 96 Crafts Road

The Brookline Preservation Commission approved revisions to the pool and spa at 96 Crafts Road, including relocating the spa, removing the speaker system, and repositioning the driveway to preserve an oak tree. The landscape plan was also approved with revisions to the driveway, pathway, and planting bed. Lighting was discussed but no final decision was recorded.

• Approved revisions to pool and spa as shown on plans dated 11/10/23 (all ayes)
• Approved landscape plan with revisions to driveway, pathway, and planting bed (all ayes)

MLK Celebration Committee

The Brookline MLK Celebration Committee is meeting to approve minutes from the previous session and continue discussions and updates regarding the 2024 MLK event, including follow-ups and action items. The agenda also includes other discussions and scheduling the next meeting.

• Approve 11/8/23 minutes
• Continued discussion on 2024 MLK event
• Follow-ups and action items for the event

The committee approved the previous meeting's minutes and continued planning the MLK event on January 15, 2024. They discussed potential speakers, video themes, and event flow, but made no final decisions on these items. The committee agreed to have Kristin create the poster, aiming for completion by the second week of December.

• Approved 11/8/23 minutes
• Kristin committed to creating the event poster, aiming for readiness by second week of December

Park & Recreation Commission

The Brookline Golf Course Advisory Committee is meeting to review the golf course's operations, including the General Manager's report and season services, and to discuss upcoming activities for the next three months. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific votes or decisions listed.

• General Manager's Report
• Golf Course Reports
• Golf Season Review of Services
• What's Next? A Look at the Next 3 Months of Activities
• Public Comment

Advisory Council of Public Health

The Brookline Advisory Council on Public Health is holding a public hearing to discuss and possibly vote on a marijuana research study, approve prior meeting minutes, and review the 2024 meeting schedule. Division and director reports are also on the agenda.

• Discussion and possible vote on Brookline Marijuana Research Study
• Approval of September 20 and October 18, 2023 minutes
• Draft 2024 meeting schedule
• Public comment period
• Division and Director's reports

The Advisory Council on Public Health endorsed the Marijuana Research Study conducted by HRiA, with four members voting in favor and one abstention. The study assessed marijuana use and impacts in Brookline, focusing on youth, and will guide future policy and programs. No other substantive decisions were made; minutes from October were deferred to December.

• Endorsed the Marijuana Research Study (4-1, with one abstention)
• Deferred approval of October meeting minutes to December

Planning Board

The Brookline Planning Board is meeting virtually to review three sign and façade cases for new or replacement signage at local businesses. The board will take public comment on matters not on the agenda before considering each sign application.

• 30 Webster Street – new wall and ground sign for Iris Hotel (Pct 17)
• 1026 Commonwealth Avenue – new wall and blade sign for Be Pasta Bar (Pct 2)
• 411 Harvard Street – replace existing wall sign with illuminated sign for Zhangliang Malatang restaurant (Pct 9)

The Brookline Planning Board approved sign plans for the Iris Hotel at 30 Webster Street and Be Pasta Bar at 1026 Commonwealth Avenue, both unanimously and subject to conditions. A proposed illuminated wall sign for Zhangliang Malatang at 411 Harvard Street was not approved; the board requested a revised proposal after members deemed the sign too large and busy.

• Approved Iris Hotel sign plans (unanimous, with conditions)
• Approved Be Pasta Bar sign plans (unanimous, with conditions)
• Tabled Zhangliang Malatang sign proposal for redesign

Select Board

The Brookline Select Board is meeting to consider several administrative and financial items, including hiring an ARPA-funded staff assistant, approving a holiday event location, authorizing housing trust emergency fund loans, and possibly reconsidering warrant articles from the November 14 Special Town Meeting. The agenda also includes routine announcements, public comment, and board appointments.

• Authorization to hire ARPA Staff Assistant (C-6) in Select Board's Office, funded by reallocating ARPA funds
• Event location request from Chamber of Commerce for 2023 First Light Holiday Celebration on Florida Ruffin Ridley School Green, Nov 30, 5-8 p.m.
• Authorization for Select Board Chair or Town Administrator to execute loan agreements or release funds from Homeownership Affordability Preservation and Foreclosure Prevention Set-Aside Fund
• Appointment of Kevin MacKenzie as Chair of Commission for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Community Relations
• Possible reconsideration and vote on warrant articles from November 14, 2023 Special Town Meeting

The Brookline Select Board approved hiring an ARPA Staff Assistant and reallocating up to $85,189 in ARPA funds, approved the Chamber of Commerce's holiday event request, authorized a foreclosure-prevention loan for an affordable unit, and made appointments to two boards. The board deferred a request to delegate emergency fund disbursement authority for further review.

• Approved authorization to hire ARPA Staff Assistant (C-6) (4-0, Aschkenasy absent)
• Approved reallocating up to $85,189 in ARPA funds for the position (4-0, Aschkenasy absent)
• Approved Chamber of Commerce 2023 First Light Holiday Celebration on Florida Ruffin Ridley School Green (4-0, Aschkenasy absent)
• Authorized Chair to execute loan agreement for 150 St. Paul Street unit 309 foreclosure prevention (4-0, Aschkenasy absent)
• Appointed Kevin MacKenzie as Chair of Commission for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Community Relations with six-month terms (5-0)
• Appointed Karen Flannery to Small Business Development Committee term ending 2026 (4-0, Aschkenasy absent)

Board of Assessors

The Brookline Board of Assessors is meeting to handle routine administrative business, including approving minutes, reviewing correspondence, and taking action on abatement applications, tax exemptions, and possible contract signings. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific items listed.

• Review and take action on abatement applications
• Review and take action on statutory exemptions
• Review and take action on applications for exemption per G.L. Ch. 59 § 5(3)
• Review and sign contracts for services, if any
• Review proposed changes in assessment/valuation standards

The Board approved the October 31, 2023 meeting minutes and granted four real estate abatements to settle appellate tax board cases. The Board also noted state approval of Fiscal Year 2024 assessed values and new growth.

• Approved amended October 31, 2023 meeting minutes
• Granted four real estate abatements for FY2019, FY2020, and FY2023

Library Trustees

The Brookline Library Trustees Finance Committee is meeting to review its mission and responsibilities and to discuss recommendations from the Investment Committee. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific decisions or dollar amounts listed. The meeting is scheduled for November 15, 2023, at the Brookline Village Library.

• Review of Finance Committee mission and responsibilities
• Discussion of Investment Committee recommendations

Park & Recreation Commission

The Park and Recreation Commission is meeting for a brief 30-minute session with a single agenda item: an update on Recreation Department leadership. No votes or decisions are listed; the meeting is informational and procedural.

• Update on Recreation Department Leadership

Building Commission

The Brookline Building Commission is meeting to approve minutes and receive updates on several municipal construction projects, including the Pierce and Driscoll school projects and the Brookline High School expansion. The agenda also includes general building department project status updates and old/new business.

• Pierce School Project update
• Driscoll School Project update
• BHS Expansion update
• Building Department projects status updates

The Commission approved October invoices and change orders for the Pierce, Driscoll, and BHS expansion projects. It also authorized the procurement of an independent cost estimator for the Pierce School Project.

• Approved October 2023 Pierce School invoices for $816,327.54
• Authorized procurement of a Pierce School project estimator (fee not to exceed $50,000)
• Approved Gilbane Change Order #33 for Driscoll School for $52,997
• Approved October Driscoll School invoices for $1,758,154.73
• Approved BHS Expansion Change Order #12 for $39,360
• Approved BHS Expansion invoices for $221,185.17
• Approved YES invoices for $8,784
• Approved MK Architects invoice for $7,400

Select Board

The Brookline Select Board is meeting to approve routine items, including hiring requests, licenses, and contracts, and to hold a public hearing on a noise bylaw waiver. Notable actions include a vote on the MWRA sewer bond agreement, police department hires, and a new lodging house license for Boston College at 400 Heath Street.

• Approve MWRA Infiltration and Inflow Financial Assistance and Loan Agreement
• Hire 2 public safety dispatchers and appoint 3 probationary police officers
• Approve new lodging house license for Boston College at 400 Heath Street (337 rooms)
• Public hearing on noise bylaw waiver for crane work at 850 Boylston Street
• Adopt 2023 Hazard Mitigation Plan and approve Chestnut Hill Commercial Area Planning Study

The Select Board approved a $942,750 no-interest sewer bond with MWRA, adopted the 2023 Hazard Mitigation Plan, and approved multiple hiring requests including police officers and dispatchers. It also approved several business licenses and a Boston College lodging house, while holding outdoor seating for Kyo Matcha pending clarification.

• Approved MWRA sewer bond and loan agreement ($942,750, no-interest) (5-0)
• Adopted Town of Brookline 2023 Hazard Mitigation Plan (5-0)
• Approved hiring for Economic Development and Long Term Planner, DPW positions, Librarian II, and police dispatchers (5-0)
• Approved appointment of three probationary police officers (5-0)
• Approved Anatolian Buffet and Kebob alcohol hours extension to 2:00 AM (4-1)
• Approved Kyo Matcha common victualler with indoor seating only; outdoor seating held (5-0)
• Approved Boston College lodging house at 400 Heath Street (337 rooms) (5-0)
• Voted favorable action on Article 15 (traveling animals) as amended (4-0-1)

Age Friendly Cities Committee

The Brookline Age-Friendly Cities Committee is meeting virtually to discuss ongoing pedestrian safety and micromobility regulations, preview November Town Meeting warrant articles, and review the committee's composition. The agenda also includes updates on the town's acceptance into the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities, and continued discussion on information dissemination challenges.

• Update on micromobility regulations and pedestrian safety from Brian Kane
• Preview of November Town Meeting Warrant Articles
• Brookline accepted into AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities
• Discussion on information dissemination challenges
• Potential guest speakers include Dementia-Friendly MA, Town Administrator, Police Chief, and Town Clerk

The Brookline Age-Friendly Cities Committee approved the October 10, 2023 meeting minutes (8-0-3) and discussed pedestrian safety, including crosswalk issues and a Transportation Board hearing on the Washington Street project. The committee also reviewed upcoming Town Meeting warrant articles, noted Brookline's acceptance into the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities, and received subcommittee reports on transportation, housing, health, library, recreation, and other topics. No major policy decisions were made; most items were informational or deferred to future meetings.

• Approved October 10, 2023 meeting minutes (8-0-3)
• Deferred Brian Kane's update on micro-mobility regulations to next month's meeting
• Discussed crosswalk issues to be raised with Transportation Board
• Noted Brookline's acceptance into AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities
• Deferred discussion of ReiMAgine Aging podcast to next meeting
• Scheduled potential guest speakers for future meetings
• Noted CoA received Mass DOT grant for $100K for medical transportation
• Discussed possible new public comment rules for the committee

Small Business Development Committee

The Small Business Development Committee is meeting to approve past minutes, discuss housekeeping, and receive staff updates on several programs including the Soofa addendum, parking meter rate increase, outdoor dining fees, and small business relief grant funding. The agenda is primarily informational with no votes scheduled.

• Approval of October 10, 2023 draft meeting minutes
• Update on Soofa Addendum
• Parking Meter Rate Increase Update
• Outdoor Dining Program Fee Update
• Small Business Relief Grant Funding

The Small Business Development Committee approved the October 10, 2023 draft meeting minutes (7-0-0) and decided to skip the December meeting, reconvening in-person on January 9, 2024 at Town Hall (tentative). Staff updates covered the approved Soofa Addendum, a proposed parking meter rate increase to $1.75/hour pending Select Board approval, and the outdoor dining program fees remaining at 2023 rates. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved October 10, 2023 draft meeting minutes (7-0-0)
• Decided to skip December meeting and reconvene in-person January 9, 2024 at Town Hall (tentative)

School Committee

The Brookline School Committee is meeting to discuss and potentially vote on several items, including FY25 budget guidelines, a special education program review, and a new IEP preview. They will also hear a superintendent's report on district responses to the Israel-Gaza war and receive public comment.

• FY25 Budget Guidelines (First Reading)
• Vote on Steps to Success beer/wine fundraiser at Brookline High School, May 22, 2024
• Special Education Independent Program Review update
• New Individualized Education Program (IEP) preview
• 8th to 9th Grade Course Recommendation Process discussion

The Brookline School Committee unanimously approved the consent agenda, including acceptance of gifts and grants, and authorized Steps to Success, Inc. to serve beer and wine at their May 2024 fundraiser at Brookline High School, subject to obtaining a temporary alcohol license. The committee also discussed the FY25 budget guidelines, which will be revised and presented again on November 30.

• Approved consent agenda including past records, gifts, grants, and student trip (8-0)
• Authorized Steps to Success to serve beer and wine at May 22, 2024 fundraiser (8-0)

Library Trustees

The Trustee Development Committee is meeting to review which of its prior recommendations have been completed and to decide the next one or two priorities to focus on. The committee will strategize action steps, which may include drafting policy language or making further recommendations to the full Board of Library Trustees. The agenda is otherwise procedural, covering convening, old/new business, and scheduling the next meeting.

• Review of committee recommendations and assessment of which have been completed
• Selection of next 1-2 priority recommendations
• Strategizing action steps, including potential policy language or further recommendations

Indigenous Peoples Celebration Committee

The Indigenous People's Celebration Committee is meeting to approve minutes, finalize planning for the Thomas Green event on Nov 29, and set dates for upcoming book clubs. They will also discuss CPA eligibility needs and a partnership with Booksmith regarding 'Flowers of the Killer Moon'.

• Approval of minutes from 10/27/23
• Final planning for Thomas Green Nov 29 event
• Next two book clubs: books and dates to be finalized
• Discussion of needs for CPA eligibility
• Continued discussion of Flowers of the Killer Moon/Booksmith partnership

The committee approved the location for the Thomas Green event at Brookline High School on Nov. 29, 2023, as a closed, unrecorded event for the BHS community. It also voted to select two book club titles, approved a motion to pursue a CPA grant for a healing garden at Friedman Park, and scheduled a public conversation on 'Killers of the Flower Moon' at the Brookline Village library on Nov. 28, 2023.

• Approved minutes from Oct. 27, 2023 meeting
• Approved Thomas Green event location at Brookline High School (closed event, no recording)
• Selected 'A Minor Chorus' for Jan/Feb 2024 book club
• Selected 'Firekeepers Daughter' for April 2024 book club
• Voted to pursue CPA grant for Friedman Park healing garden (4-1, one abstention)
• Approved library event on 'Killers of the Flower Moon' for Nov. 28, 2023, pending availability

Advisory Committee

The Brookline Advisory Committee is meeting to consider a $20,000 Reserve Fund transfer for Oasis Planning (Fire Department), review clarifying amendments to a Select Board motion under STM4-1, and possibly consider a referral motion. They will also review other amendments and may reconsider previous votes on warrant articles.

• Reserve Fund Transfer Request of $20,000 for Oasis Planning (Fire Department)
• Consideration of Select Board motion under STM4-1 with clarifying amendments
• Possible consideration of a Referral Motion under STM4-1 (TBD)
• Review of other amendments submitted and approved by the Moderator for warrant articles

The Advisory Committee voted 16-4 to approve a $20,000 reserve fund transfer for Oasis planning related to potential migrant sheltering, and voted 21-0 to accept the Select Board's version of Special Town Meeting 4 Article 1 (the Harvard Street zoning plan). A motion to refer Article 1 to a Moderator's committee failed 4-16-2. The meeting was otherwise procedural.

• Approved $20,000 reserve fund transfer for Oasis planning (16-4-1)
• Accepted Select Board version of STM4 Article 1 (21-0)
• Rejected motion to refer STM4 Article 1 to Moderator's committee (4-16-2)

Preservation Commission

A subcommittee of the Brookline Preservation Commission will meet remotely to discuss a request to lift a stay at 62 Buckminster Road. The meeting is open to the public and will be held via ZoomGov.

• Request to lift stay at 62 Buckminster Road

The Lift of Stay Subcommittee reviewed revised plans for an addition at 62 Buckminster that featured reduced massing. The subcommittee voted to approve the lift of stay.

• Approved lift of stay (unanimous)

Select Board

The Brookline Select Board will hold a licensing hearing to decide on several applications, including a grant of location for underground conduits on Beacon Street, new and amended food and entertainment licenses, a change of manager, and a new lodging house license for Boston College. The board will vote on each item after public hearing.

• Grant of Location for Crown Castle NG East and Verizon to install a 4-inch conduit on Beacon Street near MH63
• Common Victualler and Entertainment license for Kyo Matcha at 1010 Beacon Street (13 indoor, 31 outdoor seats; radio entertainment)
• Common Victualler license for Zaa'Tar Mediterranean Cuisine at 10 Cypress Street (18 seats)
• Liquor and Common Victualler license hour extension for Anatolian Buffet and Kebob at 305 Washington Street (alcohol until 2 AM)
• New Lodging House license for Boston College at 400 Heath Street (337 rooms, formerly Pine Manor College)

The Select Board recommended approval of several licenses, including a Grant of Location for underground conduits on Beacon Street, Common Victualler and entertainment licenses for Kyo Matcha (with outdoor seating held for later review), a Common Victualler license for Zaa'Tar, a change of hours for Anatolian Buffet and Kebob, a change of manager for Gyu-Kaku, and a new lodging house license for Boston College was put on hold for further discussion.

• Approved Grant of Location for Crown Castle/Verizon conduits on Beacon Street
• Approved Common Victualler and entertainment licenses for Kyo Matcha (outdoor seating held)
• Approved Common Victualler license for Zaa'Tar Mediterranean Cuisine
• Approved change of hours for Anatolian Buffet and Kebob
• Approved change of manager for Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ
• Held Boston College lodging house license for further discussion

MLK Celebration Committee

The MLK Celebration Committee is meeting to approve minutes from the previous session and continue planning for the 2024 MLK event, including follow-ups and action items. The agenda is largely procedural and discussion-focused, with no votes on specific contracts or ordinances.

• Approve minutes from October 25, 2023 meeting
• Continued discussion of 2024 MLK event planning
• Review of follow-ups and action items

The committee approved the October 25, 2023, minutes and discussed the program for the January 15, 2024, event. Members identified potential speakers and confirmed the venue will be provided free of charge by CCT.

• Approved 10/25/23 minutes
• Confirmed CCT theatre is free of charge for the event

Council on Aging

The Brookline Council on Aging is holding a hybrid meeting to discuss property tax relief for older residents, including two warrant articles on senior discounts. The agenda also includes an update on town micromobility guidelines and committee reports.

• Discussion of Warrant Article 7 (Water and Sewer Senior Discount) and Warrant Article 8 (Senior Tax Work-Off Expansion)
• Update on Town micromobility guidelines by Brian Kane, Chair of Brookline Transportation Board
• Swearing in of new or reappointed Council on Aging members by Town Clerk Ben Kaufman
• Springwell Report by Judy Chasin

The Council on Aging held a hybrid meeting on November 8, 2023, swearing in new and reappointed board members and hearing updates from guest speakers. No formal votes were taken on policy matters; the only motion was to accept the minutes of the previous meeting. The meeting included reports on the Senior Tax Work-Off Program expansion, a MassDOT grant for medical transportation, and other program updates.

• Accepted minutes of October 11, 2023 meeting (unanimous)
• Swore in reappointed and new COA board members for terms ending August 31, 2026
• Noted immediate increase in Senior Tax Work-Off hours to 125 at $15/hour
• Received $100,000 MassDOT grant for Medical Transportation Program

Committee on Town Organization & Structure

The Committee on Town Organization & Structure is meeting remotely to discuss and possibly vote on the Town Administrator Act. The agenda also includes an item for other business. No further details are provided in the agenda.

• Discussion and possible vote on Town Administrator Act

The Brookline Committee on Town Organization and Structure (CTOS) held a discussion-only meeting on November 8, 2023, about the Town Administrator Act. Members reviewed the Town Administrator's roles, including licensing delegation, hiring/firing of department heads, and the Town/School partnership. No substantive decisions were made; the only vote was to approve the minutes of the previous meeting.

• Approved meeting minutes of 10/23/2023 (unanimous)

Brookline Commission on Disability

The Brookline Commission on Disability will discuss and vote on the MBTA Communities Act zoning plans, including a consensus plan and a fall-back plan. They will also review a letter on micromobility devices and hear updates from the Transportation Board and other town bodies.

• Public hearing and vote on MBTA Communities Act (STM 4 Warrant 1) consensus and fall-back plans
• Discussion of micromobility devices and a commission letter drafted by Jim Lee
• Update from Brian Kane, Transportation Board
• Review of October 2023 minutes
• Updates from Transportation Board Liaison, Select Board, and ADA Coordinator

The Commission approved a revised public comment policy based on the Select Board's model. Members also voted to support the MBTA Communities Act consensus plan and authorized a letter to the Transportation Board regarding micromobility devices.

• Adopted revised Public Comment policy (6-0-0)
• Authorized Chair to edit and submit letter on micromobility devices to Transportation Board (6-0-0)
• Approved support for MBTA Communities Act Warrant Article (5-1-0)
• Tabled October 2023 meeting minutes

Park & Recreation Commission

The Brookline Park and Recreation Commission will discuss and vote on several items, including the final design concept for Monmouth Playground, possible changes to Robinson Hard Court hours of usage, and CPA project submissions for the Parks and Open Space Division. The agenda also includes a presentation on tree planting and maintenance, a recreation update, and public comment periods.

• Vote on Monmouth Playground final design concept
• Discussion and possible vote on Robinson Hard Court hours of usage
• Discussion and possible vote on Parks and Open Space Division CPA Project Submissions
• Presentation on Parks and Open Space tree planting, maintenance, and management
• Recreation update

The Commission unanimously approved the final design concept for the Monmouth Playground and voted 6-0 to support three Community Preservation Act (CPA) project submissions: a tree inventory and horticulture master plan implementation, a historical and cultural assessment of Larz Anderson Park, and the creation of a Park, Recreation, and Open Space Trust. The Commission also discussed but did not vote on Robinson hard court hours, leaving them at dawn to dusk.

• Approved Monmouth Playground final design concept (unanimous)
• Approved CPA project submissions: tree inventory, Larz Anderson historical assessment, and Park/Recreation/Open Space Trust (6-0)
• Approved October 10, 2023 meeting minutes (4-2-1)
• No vote on Robinson hard court hours; kept dawn to dusk

Commission for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Community Relations

The Brookline Commission for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Community Relations is holding a remote public hearing on Warrant Article 16, a proposed Rent Stabilization Program. The commission will hear a presentation from petitioners, take comments and questions, and may vote on the article.

• Public hearing on Warrant Article 16: Rent Stabilization Program
• Petitioners: Alec Lebowitz, Kimberly Richardson, Jonathan Card
• Possible commission vote on the article
• Remote meeting via ZoomGov

Human Resources Board

The Brookline Human Resources Board is meeting to review reclassification requests for the Building Department, including the Director of Public Buildings and Deputy Building Commissioner roles. They will also consider new positions such as an IT and GIS Systems Manager and a Language Access Coordinator, plus reclassifications in the Health Department. An executive session on a Fire Union grievance is scheduled.

• Reclassification requests: Director of Public Buildings, Deputy Building Commissioner/Zoning Enforcement, Deputy Director of Public Building Operations
• New positions: IT and GIS Systems Manager (DPW), Code Enforcement & Inspectional Services Manager (DPW), Language Access Coordinator (ODICR)
• Reclassification: Regional Shared Services Manager (Public Health)
• Reclassifications from ungraded to graded: Public Health Nurse, Community Health Education Specialist (Health Dept)
• Executive session on Fire Union grievance

The Human Resources Board approved the reclassification of several roles in the Building and Public Health departments. The Board also authorized the creation of three new positions across the DPW and ODICR. An executive session was held to address a fire fighters association grievance.

• Approved reclassification of Director of Public Buildings, Deputy Commissioner/Zoning Enforcement, and Deputy Director of Public Building Operations (5-0)
• Approved creation of DPW IT & GIS Systems Manager (T-10) and Code Enforcement Program Manager (T-07) (5-0)
• Approved creation of ODICR Language Access Coordinator (T-4) (5-0)
• Approved reclassification of Regional Shared Services Manager from T-03 to T-07 (5-0)
• Approved classification of Public Health Nurse as T-12 and Community Health Education Specialist HCA as T-03 (5-0)
• Approved August 2, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)

Brookline Commission for Women

The Brookline Commission for Women is meeting to approve October minutes, hear public comment, and receive liaison updates. The main business is an initial planning discussion for the Woman of the Year award, a vote on a letter to the Brookline legislative team regarding the IAM Bill, and a possible vote on issuing a statement on the current conflict in Israel and Gaza.

• Vote to approve October 2023 meeting minutes
• Initial planning discussion for Woman of the Year
• IAM Bill updates and vote on letter to Brookline legislative team
• Discussion and possible vote on statement on Israel-Gaza conflict

The Brookline Commission for Women discussed plans for a Women of the Year event on March 20, with up to three honorees and a segment on women-owned businesses. They also agreed to informally check public bathrooms in town to ensure feminine care products are available, following reports that some facilities were not stocked. The Israel Conflict item was tabled pending a town-wide response. No formal votes were taken.

• Tabled Israel Conflict discussion pending town-wide response
• Agreed to informally check public bathrooms for feminine care products
• Scheduled Women of the Year event for March 20 with up to 3 honorees
• Assigned Rebecca to follow up on school menstrual product supply
• Assigned Julia to gather data on women-owned businesses

Bicycle Advisory Committee

The Brookline Bicycle Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss and possibly act on draft micromobility regulations, the BU Bridge proposal, and the organization of town bicycle-related web documents. They will also discuss bike routes for Pierce students and from South Brookline to Brookline High School. The agenda includes routine business such as a police report and open projects.

• Discussion and action on draft micromobility regulations
• Discussion of routes to Old Lincoln for Pierce students
• Continued discussion on bike routes from South Brookline to BHS
• Discussion and possible action on BU Bridge Proposal
• Discussion and possible action on organizing town bicycle-related web documents

Advisory Committee

The Schools Subcommittee of the Brookline Advisory Committee will meet on November 8, 2023, to approve minutes, continue prior discussions on subcommittee focus, and address new business. The agenda is largely procedural, with no public comment taken.

• Approval of minutes
• Continuation of prior discussions re: subcommittee focus
• New business

Zero Emissions Advisory Board

The Zero Emissions Advisory Board will hold a public hearing and vote on two articles related to the MBTA Communities Act, which propose amendments to the town's zoning by-law. These amendments would add a Harvard Street Form-Based Zones standard, create a multi-family overlay district, add site plan review, and amend affordable housing requirements. The board is deciding whether to support these zoning changes.

• Vote on Special Town Meeting 4 / WA 1: MBTA Communities Act consensus article
• Vote on Special Town Meeting 1 / WA 4: MBTA Communities Act article
• Add Article XI, Harvard Street Form-Based Zones Standards
• Add Section 5.06.4.o MBTA-CA Multi-Family Overlay District
• Amend Section 4.08 – Affordable Housing Requirements

The Zero Emissions Advisory Board held a public hearing to evaluate two articles based on their impact on emissions. The board voted to endorse the MBTA-CA Consensus Plan while voting against the M Districts + Plan.

• Endorsed Special Town Meeting 4 Article 1 (MBTA-CA Consensus Plan) (4-0)
• Denied endorsement of Special Town Meeting 1 Article 4 (M Districts + Plan) (0-4)

Committee of Seven for Designer Selection

The Committee of Seven for Designer Selection is meeting to discuss and decide on proposals for the Brookline High School Selective Structural and Waterproofing Repairs Project. The agenda includes a walk-through of the project areas, discussion of the two proposals received, and a decision on whether to conduct interviews or rank the proposals.

• Walk-through of project areas at Brookline High School Atrium, 115 Greenough Street
• Discussion of two proposals received for the repairs project
• Decision on interviews or ranking of proposals

The Committee of Seven for Designer Selection ranked LeMessurier first and Socotec second for design services for selective structural and waterproofing repairs at Brookline High School. The ranking was approved by a 5-1 vote, with one member voting nay. The committee's work is complete; the Building Commission will now negotiate with LeMessurier.

• Ranked LeMessurier first and Socotec second for designer selection (5-1)
• Approved motion to rank LeMessurier first and Socotec second (5-1)

School Committee

The Brookline School Finance Subcommittee will meet to approve minutes, grants, and gifts, review the FY25 budget book format, and discuss and possibly vote on FY25 budget guidelines and priorities. The meeting is open to the public via Zoom.

• Approval of October 18, 2023 Finance Subcommittee minutes
• Approval of grants
• Approval of gifts
• Presentation on FY25 Budget Book Format
• Discussion and possible vote on FY25 Budget Guidelines and Priorities

The Brookline School Committee Finance Subcommittee voted to recommend that the full School Committee accept five state and federal grants totaling $1,037,787 and a $765 gift from the Brookline High School PTO. The subcommittee also discussed draft FY25-29 Budget Guidelines and a new Budget Book format, with revisions to be presented at the November 13 School Committee meeting. No final decisions were made on the budget guidelines.

• Approved October 18, 2023 meeting minutes (2-0-1)
• Recommended acceptance of five grants totaling $1,037,787 (3-0)
• Recommended acceptance of $765 gift from BHS PTO (3-0)

Preservation Commission

The Brookline Preservation Commission will hold a remote public hearing on November 7, 2023, to review applications for partial demolitions, certificates of appropriateness in the Pill Hill Local Historic District, and votes on property significance and draft guidelines. The agenda includes public comment and approval of minutes.

• Partial demolition application for 285 Warren Street (Robert Allen, applicant)
• Partial demolition application for 12 Fairmount Street (Shula Glazerman, applicant)
• Solar array and mechanicals at 104 Walnut Street (Pill Hill LHD) (Josue Cruz, applicant)
• Addition on carriage house at 78 Upland Road (Pill Hill LHD) (Tim Burke, applicant)
• Retroactive certificate for heat pump conduit at 60 High Street (Pill Hill LHD) (Jillian Berry Jaeker, applicant)

The Brookline Preservation Commission upheld staff determinations of significance for partial demolitions at 285 Warren Street and 12 Fairmount Street, approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for a carriage house addition at 78 Upland Road, denied a retroactive Certificate for a heat pump conduit at 60 High Street, and approved the draft Local Historic District Guidelines. The Commission also voted on the significance of several properties in the Brookline Village National Register District.

• Uphold significance of 285 Warren Street (6-0)
• Uphold significance of 12 Fairmount Street (6-0)
• Continued 104 Walnut Street solar array case (6-0)
• Approved 78 Upland Road carriage house addition with conditions (6-0)
• Denied retroactive Certificate for 60 High Street heat pump conduit (4-2)
• Continued hardship discussion for 60 High Street (6-0)
• Found 5-6 Harvard Square significant (6-0)
• Found 1-3 Harvard Square significant (4-2)

Select Board

The Brookline Select Board will review and vote on several contracts, licenses, and appointments. Key items include a $1.08 million sewer manhole lining contract, a $31,000 community survey contract, and a temporary alcohol license. The board will also discuss public comment policy and warrant articles for the upcoming Special Town Meeting.

• Contract PW/23-22 with National Water Main Cleaning Company for $1,084,670 for epoxy lining of sewer manholes
• Contract with Policy Confluence, Inc. for $31,000 for the National Community Survey
• Reserve Fund Transfer of $20,000 for FY24 Oasis Plan expenses
• Temporary All Alcohol Beverages Sales License for Hellenic Association of Boston on Nov 10 at 162 Goddard Ave
• Grant of Location for Eversource to provide electric service to 224 Sargent Road

The Select Board voted unanimously to approve a revised public comment policy, a $1,084,670 sewer manhole epoxy lining contract, a $20,000 reserve fund transfer for emergency management, and a temporary alcohol license. The board also approved several appointments and reappointments to town boards and commissions. No vote was taken on the anti-Semitism definition or the National Community Survey contract, which was tabled for further review.

• Approved revised public comment policy (4-0)
• Approved $1,084,670 sewer manhole epoxy lining contract with National Water Main Cleaning Company (4-0)
• Approved $20,000 reserve fund transfer for FY24 Oasis Plan (4-0)
• Approved temporary alcohol license to Hellenic Association of Boston for Nov 10 event (4-0)
• Approved Eversource grant of location for electric service to 224 Sargent Road (4-0)
• Reappointed Jason Ribatt, Clara Batchelor, Theresa Mooney to Parks and Recreation Commission (4-0)
• Appointed Jane Flanagan, Declan Ross to Parks and Recreation Commission (4-0)
• Appointed Krishna Prashanthi to Women's Commission and Ian Black to Planning Board (4-0)

Economic Development Advisory Board

The Economic Development Advisory Board will hear a presentation from consultant Karl F. Seidman Consulting Services on the Linkage Fee Nexus Study, focusing on affordable housing demand. The meeting covers methodology, employee survey results, demand estimates, and initial thoughts on proceeding with Part 2 of the study. Public comment will not be taken.

• Presentation on Task #2 of the Linkage Fee Nexus Study
• Affordable housing demand methodology and estimates
• Employee survey results
• Discussion on whether to proceed with Part 2 of the Nexus Study

Solid Waste Advisory Committee

The Solid Waste Advisory Committee will hear a presentation on Extended Producer Responsibility in Massachusetts and may vote on it, followed by a public hearing on Warrant Article 17 with a possible vote. The DPW will report on tonnage, school composting, and updates. The committee will also elect a new chair.

• Presentation and possible vote on Extended Producer Responsibility (Waneta Trabert)
• Public hearing and possible vote on Warrant Article 17 (Clint Richmond)
• DPW report: tonnage, school composting, upcoming events
• Committee chair election

The Solid Waste Advisory Committee voted unanimously to support Warrant Article 17, a resolution urging Brookline to avoid purchasing or using products containing PFAS, and will write a letter to the Select Board in support. The committee also approved the October 3, 2023 minutes and discussed Extended Producer Responsibility legislation, with plans to gather more information before advising the Select Board. No other formal decisions were made.

• Approved minutes from October 3, 2023 (unanimous)
• Voted unanimously to support Warrant Article 17 (PFAS resolution)
• Decided to write a letter to the Select Board supporting the PFAS resolution
• Agreed to gather more information on paint EPR bills before advising the Select Board
• Re-elected John Dempsey as Committee Chair

Conservation Commission

The Brookline Conservation Commission will meet to review and decide on several environmental matters. The agenda includes a public hearing on a Request for Determination of Applicability for 30 Lyon Road, a review of Muddy River phosphorus reduction boom testing, and potential issuance of an Order of Conditions for a Notice of Intent at 29 Sears Road. The commission will also discuss a geotechnical analysis for 154 Woodland Road, Community Preservation Act matters, and climate change regulations.

• Public hearing on Request for Determination of Applicability – 30 Lyon Road
• Review of Muddy River Phosphorus Reduction Boom Testing
• Review and possible issuance of Order of Conditions for Notice of Intent DEP 120-200 BWB 23-04 – 29 Sears Road
• Review of Geotechnical Analysis – 154 Woodland Road
• Community Preservation Act and Climate Change Regulation discussions

The Commission approved an Order of Conditions for a project at 29 Sears Road and issued a negative determination for a mudroom project at 30 Lyons Road. The board also reviewed a phosphorus reduction study for the Muddy River and discussed emergency ledge removal at 154 Woodland Road.

• Approved Order of Conditions for 29 Sears Road (5-1, 1 abstention)
• Issued Negative 3 Determination of Applicability for 30 Lyons Road (5-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved minutes from October 17, 2023 (4-0)

Library Trustees

The Brookline Library Trustees Policy Committee is meeting to discuss a parental responsibility policy as new business. The agenda also includes comments from the chair and public, remarks for the good of the order, and adjournment. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Discussion of Parental Responsibility Policy
• Public comments limited to 5 minutes
• Meeting held in hybrid format at Public Library of Brookline, 361 Washington Street

Commission for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Community Relations

The Immigrant Advancement Committee of Brookline's Commission for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Community Relations is meeting to vote on minutes, receive updates, and discuss focus groups for the Welcome Booklet. They will also plan next steps, including scheduling focus groups with the Brookline Housing Authority and Senior Center, and reassigning follow-ups with community groups.

• Vote on meeting minutes
• Discussion of focus groups for Welcome Booklet
• Plan next steps for Welcome Booklet
• Identify dates for BHA and Senior Center focus group
• Reassign follow-up with community groups

The committee voted unanimously to approve the October minutes. Updates were given on the emergency shelter waitlist and the approved full-time Language Access Coordinator position, which is expected to be posted within two weeks. The committee discussed focus groups for the Welcome Booklet and assigned follow-up actions to members.

• Approved October minutes (7-0)
• Language Access Coordinator full-time position approved by HR Board; posting expected within 2 weeks
• Assigned follow-ups for Welcome Booklet focus groups with community organizations

Moderator's PILOT Committee

The Moderator's PILOT Committee is meeting to approve past meeting minutes, review draft report revisions, and discuss the release of the final report, with a possible vote on publishing it. The agenda is procedural and focused on finalizing the committee's report.

• Approval of minutes from June 21, July 19, August 2, August 16, and August 30 meetings
• Review of draft report revisions
• Discussion and possible vote on publishing the final report

Pierce School Building Committee

The Pierce School Building Committee is meeting to discuss and possibly vote on referring an Open Meeting Law complaint (received October 19, 2023) to Town Counsel, and to delegate members to work with Town Counsel on a final response to the Attorney General's Office. The agenda also includes announcements, updates, comments, upcoming meetings, and public comment. This is a procedural meeting focused on handling a legal complaint.

• Possible vote to refer Open Meeting Law complaint (received Oct 19, 2023) to Town Counsel
• Possible delegation of members to draft/approve final response to AG's Office
• Public comment period

The Pierce School Building Committee voted unanimously to refer an Open Meeting Law complaint received October 19, 2023, to Town Counsel and delegate Co-Chair Bernard Greene to draft the final response to the Attorney General's Office. Discussion clarified that Working Group meetings with fewer than a quorum still fall under OML requirements. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Referred OML complaint to Town Counsel and delegated Bernard Greene to draft response (13-0)

Planning Board

The Brookline Planning Board is holding a virtual meeting with public comment and four tentative Zoning Board of Appeals cases. These cases involve requests for parking spaces, a home remodel, a basement dwelling unit, and a two-family dwelling remodel. The board will discuss these items, which are scheduled at various times during the meeting.

• 107 University Road – create two parking spaces for existing three-family (Pct. 10)
• 33 Verndale Street – remodel single-family home with first floor addition, rear porch, new dormer (Pct. 9)
• 16 Hamilton Road – basement dwelling unit addition at existing apartment building (Pct. 8)
• 59-61 Mason Terrace – remodel and additions to attached two-family dwelling (Pct. 11)

Planning Board

The Brookline Planning Board voted 4-1 to recommend approval of a site plan for two new parking spaces at 107 University Road, subject to conditions. The board continued three other cases—33 Verndale Street, 16 Hamilton Road, and 59-61 Mason Terrace—to allow applicants to revise plans based on board comments. No non-agenda public comment was received.

• Approved 107 University Road parking project (4-1) with conditions
• Continued 33 Verndale Street remodel case unanimously
• Continued 16 Hamilton Road basement unit case unanimously
• Continued 59-61 Mason Terrace remodel case unanimously

Housing Advisory Board

The Brookline Housing Advisory Board is meeting remotely to discuss and potentially vote on a funding request from the Brookline CDC and revisions to zoning bylaw 4.08. The agenda also includes updates on MBTA Communities compliance, the Housing Production Plan, recent 40B projects, the Affordable Housing Overlay District, and a nexus study. An executive session on affordable homeowner foreclosure prevention is scheduled for 7pm.

• Tentative vote on Brookline CDC funding request
• Tentative vote on 4.08 revisions
• MBTA Communities update
• Update on recent 40B projects
• Executive session on affordable homeowner foreclosure prevention

Brookline Commission for the Arts

The Brookline Commission for the Arts is meeting to handle routine business, including welcoming new members, approving minutes, and receiving a treasurer's report on available FY24 grant funds. They will also discuss a possible joint ribbon-cutting event for the Boxes Around Town public art fundraiser and review the FY24 grant process.

• Treasurer's report on FY24 grant funds
• Possible joint ribbon-cutting for Boxes Around Town public art fundraiser
• Review of FY24 grant process

Board of Assessors

The Brookline Board of Assessors is meeting to handle routine administrative matters, including approving minutes, reviewing correspondence, signing warrants and contracts, and taking action on abatement applications, ATB case settlements, and statutory exemptions. The agenda is largely procedural, with most items conditional on whether any are presented.

• Review and take action on abatement applications
• Review and take action on ATB case settlements
• Review and take action on statutory exemptions
• Review proposed changes in assessment/valuation standards
• Review and sign contracts for services

The Board of Assessors approved minutes from October 10, 2023, and granted four real estate abatements in final settlement of appellate tax board cases (two for FY2022, two for FY2023). They discussed a Town Meeting article on the Senior Citizen Tax Work-Off Program, noting that changes to hours and earnings can be made administratively rather than through Town Meeting. The board also noted preliminary certification of FY2024 assessed values and scheduled a classification hearing for November 28.

• Approved minutes of October 10, 2023 meeting
• Granted 4 real estate abatements in final settlement of ATB cases (2 for FY2022, 2 for FY2023)
• Signed summary of Overvaluation Abatements for FY2022 and FY2023

Community Preservation Act Committee

The Community Preservation Act Committee will meet virtually to approve minutes, hear public comment, and vote on approving eligibility letters for applicants seeking Community Preservation Act funding. The meeting is largely procedural, with no specific projects or dollar amounts listed on the agenda.

• Approval of meeting minutes
• Public comment for items not on the agenda
• Vote on CPA eligibility application approvals

The Community Preservation Committee reviewed and deemed 24 applications eligible to move forward to the full proposal stage. The committee provided specific guidance to several applicants regarding ownership documentation, project phasing, and public purpose demonstrations. Final applications are due by December 14th.

• Approved September 11, 2023 minutes
• Approved October 16, 2023 minutes
• Determined 24 project applications eligible for full proposal submission
• Required Brookline CDC to submit separate applications for each property in Application 2023-05 and 2023-07
• Required All Saints Parish and United Parish Church to demonstrate public purpose and obtain Town Council opinion on Anti-Aid Amendment
• Required Friends of Larz Anderson to obtain support and permission from the Department of Public Works

Select Board

The Brookline Select Board is meeting remotely to handle routine announcements, public comment, and approvals. They will vote on transferring $50,000 from ARPA contingency funds for an operational analysis, and review warrant articles for the November 14 Special Town Meeting, including senior discounts on water/sewer rates and MBTA-CA items.

• Transfer of $50,000 from ARPA contingency fund to Select Board office for operational analysis by Dr. Gerard Cox
• Warrant Article 7: senior discount program for water and sewer rates
• Warrant Article 8: expansion of Senior Tax work-off program
• Warrant Article 4: MBTA-CA Contingency
• Warrant Article 1: MBTA-CA Consensus

The Select Board authorized a $50,000 transfer from ARPA funds to hire Dr. Gerard Cox for an operational analysis of Town Hall and Police Department relations. The board also voted on several warrant articles for the November 14 Special Town Meeting.

• Approved $50,000 transfer for operational analysis by Dr. Gerard Cox (4-0)
• Voted FA 5-0 on Warrant Article 7 regarding senior water and sewer rate discounts
• Voted No Action 5-0 on Warrant Article 8 regarding Senior Tax work-off program
• Approved amendments to Warrant Article 4 regarding MBTA-CA Contingency (5-0)
• Approved meeting minutes from October 17 and October 24, 2023 (4-0)

Police Commissioners Advisory Committee

The Brookline Police Commissioners Advisory Committee is meeting to approve prior minutes, hear public comment, and review civilian feedback survey responses. The main item is a public hearing on the Brookline Police Department Mid-Year Report. The agenda is otherwise routine, with future meeting dates listed.

• Public hearing on Brookline Police Department Mid-Year Report
• Report on Civilian Feedback Survey responses
• Approval of minutes from October 2, 2023
• Public comment limited to two minutes per speaker

The Police Commissioners Advisory Committee (PCAC) conducted a public hearing on the police department's mid-year report for January–June 2023. The report showed increases in Part A crimes, arrests, and field interviews, while moving violations and calls for service decreased. The committee discussed data limitations, including the inability to determine if there is a disparity in traffic stop outcomes between residents and non-residents, and agreed to continue discussions at the next meeting. No formal votes were taken on the report.

• Approved deferring approval of previous meeting minutes to December 4 meeting
• Held public hearing on police mid-year report (no vote)
• Discussed potential data collection on traffic stop outcomes by residency (no decision)
• Agreed to add discussion of public comment policy to next meeting agenda

Pedestrian Advisory Committee

The Pedestrian Advisory Committee will meet remotely to discuss draft revisions to micro-mobility regulations, a proposal for Boston University Bridge safety improvements, and potential changes to its charter. They will also review meeting minutes and receive updates on Vision Zero and Washington Street projects.

• Discussion of draft revisions to Micro-Mobility Regulations circulated by Transportation Board Chair Brian Kane
• Boston University Bridge Safety Alliance proposal for safety improvements
• Review of committee charter and mission statement
• Updates on Vision Zero Committee and Washington Street DRC meeting
• Potential discussion of pedestrian crash data and police efforts

The committee voted to update draft micro-mobility regulations regarding user vulnerability and sidewalk separation. Members also authorized a memo to the Transportation Board supporting safety improvements for the BU Bridge.

• Approved September 11, 2023 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Authorized Chair to update micro-mobility regulations and submit to Transportation Board (6-0)
• Authorized Chair to submit memo to Transportation Board supporting BU Bridge Safety Alliance proposal (6-0)
• Tabled review of Committee Charter

Retirement Board

The Brookline Retirement Board will hold a virtual public meeting to discuss and potentially act on several financial items, including an option to invest in the PRIM PEVY24 fund, an update on an ADR case, and an election by declaration. The board will also review bank reconciliations, trial balance, cash year-to-date, and approve prior month's minutes, pension payroll, refunds, transfers, and expenses. The agenda is largely routine financial oversight, with the PRIM investment option being the most consequential item.

• Option to invest in PRIM PEVY24
• ADR update (Flaherty, Dowling)
• Election by declaration
• August bank reconciliations, trial balance, cash YTD
• Approve September minutes, pension payroll, refunds, transfers, expenses

Indigenous Peoples Celebration Committee

The Indigenous People's Celebration Committee is meeting virtually to approve minutes from the prior meeting and finalize planning for an upcoming book club on November 5th. They will also receive an update on the Coolidge Corner 'Talk Back' event and discuss new or other business.

• Approval of minutes from 10/20/23
• Final planning for book club on November 5th
• Coolidge Corner 'Talk Back' update

The Indigenous People's Celebration Committee discussed upcoming events, including a book club on Ned Blackhawk's 'The Rediscovery of America' and a potential film discussion for 'Killers of the Flower Moon.' They are arranging a talk by Thomas Green of the Massachusett Tribe of Ponkapoag on November 29, 2023, with venue options being Brookline High School or Hunneman Hall. No formal votes or binding decisions were made; the meeting was primarily planning and discussion.

• Approved minutes from 10/20/23 meeting
• Scheduled book club discussion for 11/5/23 with assigned roles
• Agreed to join book club 10 minutes early at 3:50 pm on 11/5/23
• Decided not to hold post-film discussion for 'Killers of the Flower Moon' due to length and content
• Tasked Kailey to approach Brookline Booksmith about alternative event
• Tasked Felina to check with Brookline High School about hosting Thomas Green talk
• Selected Hunneman Hall as backup venue for Thomas Green talk

Advisory Committee

The Brookline Advisory Committee will meet to reconsider a prior vote on a senior water/sewer discount program and to review revised versions of warrant articles banning pet shop sales of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians, and prohibiting certain wild animals in traveling acts. The committee may also reconsider other warrant article votes, including a senior tax work-off program amendment. Public comment is scheduled at the start.

• Possible reconsideration of WA 7: senior discount program for water and sewer rates
• Revised WA 14: ban on selling mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians in pet shops
• Revised WA 15: ban on elephants, monkeys, zebras in traveling animal acts
• Possible reconsideration of WA 8: amend Senior Tax work-off program

The Advisory Committee voted to recommend favorable action on amended Warrant Articles 14 and 15, which would ban the sale of mammals and birds in pet shops and prohibit certain wild animals in traveling acts. It also voted to refer Warrant Article 7 (senior water/sewer discount) back to the Select Board and changed its recommendation on Warrant Article 8 (senior tax work-off) to no action.

• Recommended favorable action on WA 14 (pet shop sale ban) as amended (13-1-8)
• Recommended favorable action on WA 15 (traveling animal act ban) as amended (13-2-8)
• Referred WA 7 (senior water/sewer discount) back to Select Board (21-0-0)
• Changed WA 8 (senior tax work-off) recommendation to no action (23-0-0)

Roland Hayes School Site Council

The Heath School Site Council is meeting to review the School Improvement Plan, discuss MCAS data, and get updates on the school renaming process, enrollment, and program expansions. The agenda is mostly discussion and review items, with no votes or decisions listed.

• Review of School Improvement Plan
• Update on school renaming
• Review and discussion of MCAS data
• Updates on enrollment and class sizes
• Updates on RISE and BEEP programs

Lawrence School Site Council

The Lawrence School Site Council is meeting to review the current School Improvement Plan (SIP) for the 2022-2024 period, which is a progress monitoring year. They will discuss adjustments and next-step priorities based on the principal's initial impressions. The agenda also includes principal updates on the start of the school year and an open comment period for topics like communication and the Open House. This is a working meeting focused on planning and feedback, not a final decision-making session.

• Review of SIP progress with color-coded status (green/yellow/red)
• Discussion of multi-year SIP goals for Lawrence's future
• Principal updates on start of 2023-2024 school year
• Open comment on school opening, Open House, and communication
• Election of co-chair at first meeting (per state law)

Library Trustees

The Brookline Library Trustees are meeting to review the status of the library's endowment for the first quarter of the year. The agenda contains only this review item followed by adjournment, with no other decisions or discussions listed.

• Review of 1st Q endowment status

Brookline Early Education Program (BEEP) Site Council

The Brookline Early Education Program (BEEP) Site Council is meeting to review its role, elect a co-chair, and set goals for the 2023-2024 school year, including developing a new School Improvement Plan for Full Day BEEP, reviewing the PSB Strategic Plan, and reviewing the budget. The agenda is largely procedural and planning-focused, with no specific dollar amounts or policy decisions listed.

• Election of a co-chair for the Site Council
• Develop a new School Improvement Plan for Full Day BEEP
• Review PSB Strategic Plan
• Review Budget

Pierce School Site Council

The Pierce School Site Council is meeting to receive principal updates on the Pierce Project, the School Improvement Plan (SIP), and MCAS results. The council will also select a co-chair and plan next steps for completing the SIP, with time for new business and public comment.

• Principal updates on Pierce Project, SIP, and MCAS
• Select co-chair or begin selection process
• Planning to finish the School Improvement Plan (SIP)
• New business and open comment period

School Committee

The Brookline School Committee will hold a public hearing on Article 17, a resolution regarding PFAS, and discuss and possibly vote on Articles 10 and 17 for the Special Town Meeting. The agenda also includes presentations on Youth Risk Behavior Survey data, budget updates for FY2023 and FY2024, and a possible vote on the FY2025 budget calendar. Consent agenda items include approvals of gifts and change orders for school construction projects.

• Public hearing and possible vote on Article 17 (PFAS resolution)
• Discussion and possible vote on Article 10 (transfer of unexpended bond proceeds)
• Driscoll School Project: Gilbane Building Company Change Order No. 32, $32,075.00
• Driscoll School Project: Jonathan Levi Architects Contract Amendment No. 25, $3,520.00
• Pierce School Project: Consigli Construction Contract Amendment No. 3, $29,842.54

The Brookline School Committee voted unanimously to support two Town Meeting warrant articles: Article 17, a non-binding resolution urging the town to avoid PFAS-containing products, and Article 10, which transfers $3.9 million in surplus bond proceeds from the Ridley School project to the Pierce School project. The committee also approved the FY25 budget development calendar and several construction change orders for the Driscoll School project.

• Approved Consent Agenda including gifts and construction change orders (7-0)
• Supported Warrant Article 17 (PFAS resolution) (7-0)
• Supported Warrant Article 10 (bond transfer for Pierce School) (7-0)
• Approved FY25 Budget Development Calendar (7-0)
• Instructed MASC delegate on resolutions (7-0)
• Entered Executive Session for collective bargaining (7-0)

Park & Recreation Commission

The Park and Recreation Commission is holding the third design review meeting for the Monmouth Phase 1 project. The agenda includes an overview of playground concepts, community discussion, and a vote on the playground design. This is a public meeting where residents can provide feedback before the commission decides.

• Vote on playground design for Monmouth Phase 1
• Community discussion and feedback session
• Approval of September 19, 2023 minutes
• Meeting held via Zoom and phone

The Park and Recreation Commission voted to move forward with the literal fire truck-themed playground design for Monmouth Phase 1, with modifications including replacing the stage area with an extended table, exploring hammock seats or more seating, considering alternative climbing steps, and reviewing the structure's rotation. The vote was 5-0. The commission also approved the September 19th meeting minutes.

• Approved September 19th meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved moving forward with fire truck playground design, with modifications (5-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Brookline Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a virtual public hearing on October 26, 2023, to consider three cases: a request to install lighting for the field at Dexter School (20 Newton Street), and two requests for extensions of time for previously approved projects—a home addition at 779 Washington Street and a garage reconstruction at 7 Dana Street. The board will also conduct other business and accept public comment.

• 20 Newton Street: Install lighting for field at Dexter School (Case 2023-000044)
• 779 Washington Street: Extension of time for 1.5-story addition with attached garage (Case 2023-000045)
• 7 Dana Street: Extension of time for garage demolition and reconstruction (Case 2023-000046)

MLK Celebration Committee

The MLK Celebration Committee is meeting to approve prior minutes and continue planning for the 2024 MLK event. The agenda includes discussion of event ideas and updates, with no specific decisions or proposals detailed.

• Approve 10/12/23 meeting minutes
• Continued discussion of 2024 MLK event ideas

The committee approved the October 12 minutes and continued planning the MLK event for January 15, 2024. They discussed potential participation by the African American History Museum (AAHM), subject to staff availability, and considered adjusting the event start time to 3:30/4 PM. No final decisions were made on event details.

• Approved 10/12/23 meeting minutes
• Agreed either Noelle or Christian from AAHM would be suitable presenters
• Decided to explore pushing MLK event start time to 3:30/4 PM
• Finalized library displays: 2 months at Coolidge, 1 month at Brookline Village

Runkle School Site Council

The Runkle School Site Council is meeting to discuss updates to the school handbook regarding behavior and academic policies, review MCAS results and plans for the school year, and consider new agenda items for 2023-2024. The meeting is a routine governance session with no major decisions or public hearings scheduled.

• Updates to Runkle Handbook re: Behavior and Academic Policies
• MCAS results and plans for this school year
• School Improvement Plan discussion
• New Agenda Items for the 2023-2024 School Year

Pierce School Building Committee

The Pierce School Building Committee is meeting to approve prior meeting minutes, review the project timeline, and receive updates on the budget and design. The agenda includes public comment and discussion of old and new business.

• Vote to approve meeting minutes from September 28, September 19, and June 2, 2023
• Project timeline review
• Budget update
• Design update

The committee approved meeting minutes from June and September 2023. Members reviewed the project timeline, budget updates, and interior and exterior design progress. The MSBA increased its maximum participation grant from $37.8M to $45.4M, reducing the Town's share of costs.

• Approved September 19, 2023 and June 2, 2023 meeting minutes (9-0-0)

Planning Board

The Brookline Planning Board is continuing a public hearing on proposed zoning amendment warrant articles for the Fall 2023 Town Meeting, focusing on the Harvard Street Main Street Corridor Form-Based Zoning. The board will hear public comment and then discuss and potentially vote on the articles in their entirety. A contingency hearing is scheduled for November 1 if needed.

• Continued public hearing on STM 1 Articles 3, 4, 5; STM 3 Article 1; STM 4 Article 1
• Focus on Article XI - Harvard Street Main Street Corridor Form-Based Zoning
• Public comment period for Harvard Street-related comments
• Potential board vote on all articles in their entirety
• Contingency hearing date of November 1, 2023

The Planning Board voted 5-1 to recommend favorable action on the STM 4 WA 1 'Consensus Plan' for Harvard Street form-based zoning, with an amendment allowing the board to permit substitutions or modifications meeting the intent of design standards after a public hearing. The board also voted 6-0 to support the M-District Plus fallback plan if the primary article fails at Town Meeting. The hearing was continued from October 18 and included public comment and discussion of design standards, parking, and MBTA Communities Act compliance.

• Approved favorable action on STM 4 WA 1 Consensus Plan (5-1)
• Approved amendment to allow Planning Board to permit design standard substitutions after public hearing (5-1)
• Approved favorable action on STM 1 WA 4 M-District Plus fallback plan (6-0)

Human Resources Board

The Brookline Human Resources Board will review several new positions and reclassification requests, including a Deputy Director of Public Building Operations reclassification and four new manager roles across DPW, ODICR, and Public Health. The board will also enter executive session to discuss a Fire Union grievance, and will handle routine business like approving minutes and HR updates.

• Reclassification of Deputy Director of Public Building Operations
• New IT and GIS Systems Manager (DPW)
• New Code Enforcement & Inspectional Services Manager (DPW)
• New Language Access Coordinator (ODICR)
• Executive session on Fire Union grievance

Advisory Committee

The Schools Subcommittee of Brookline's Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss recent School Committee and School Finance Subcommittee workshops, and to continue planning the focus of its efforts. The meeting is open to the public but no public comment will be taken.

• Discussion of School Committee workshop held on 10/19/23
• Discussion of School Finance Subcommittee meeting held on 10/18/23
• Continuation of discussion about possible focus of subcommittee efforts

Select Board

The Brookline Select Board will review and potentially vote on several warrant articles for the November 14 Special Town Meeting, including rent stabilization, MBTA-CA zoning, and a pet store animal ban. The board will also consider contracts, licenses, and a rodent action plan update.

• Contract PW/24-10 for sidewalk repairs with Fred Deroma and Sons, Inc. for $542,732.95
• Contract Amendment #3 with Consigli Construction for Pierce School Project for $29,843
• Change Order #32 with Gilbane for Driscoll School Project for $32,075
• Grant from UASI for Police Department security cameras for $14,864
• Public hearing on liquor license violation for Sunset Cantina at 916 Commonwealth Ave

The Select Board approved a new Rodent Action Plan and solid waste regulations. It also issued a 7-day liquor license suspension to Sunset Cantina following overcrowding and disorder violations. Several warrant articles for the November 14 Special Town Meeting were reviewed, with some receiving favorable action and others denied.

• Approved Rodent Action Plan and solid waste regulations (5-0)
• Suspended Sunset Cantina liquor license for 7 days (3-1)
• Approved $542,732.95 sidewalk repair contract with Fred Deroma and Sons, Inc. (5-0)
• Approved Soofa contract amendment (5-0)
• Approved outdoor dining guidelines and paused fee hikes for 2024 (5-0)
• Voted 'No Action' on rent stabilization and tenant eviction protections article (4-1)
• Approved boards and commissions procedure document (4-0)
• Approved $32,075 change order for Driscoll School Project (5-0)

Preservation Commission

The Brookline Preservation Commission will hold a remote public hearing on October 24, 2023, to consider a full demolition application, two Certificate of Appropriateness requests in Local Historic Districts, and a possible vote on a letter regarding the MBTA Communities Act zoning warrant article. The agenda also includes discussion of design standards for the Brookline Village National Register District.

• 12 Williams Street: application for full demolition of house and garage (Robert Allen, applicant)
• 141 Carlton Street (Cottage Farm LHD): replace wood gutters with fiberglass, wood soffits/fascia with composite (Pat Duncan, applicant)
• 96 Crafts Road (Chestnut Hill-North LHD): one-story addition, dormer, retaining wall, new fencing, deck reconfiguration, remove existing fencing (Guy Grassi, applicant)
• Possible vote to approve letter on MBTA Communities Act zoning (STM 4, Art. 1) submitted by Select Board
• Further discussion of Brookline Village National Register District Design Standards

The Brookline Preservation Commission voted that the house at 12 Williams Street is not significant, allowing its demolition, but upheld the significance of the garage. The Commission also approved several certificates of appropriateness, including a partial approval for 96 Crafts Road with a subcommittee to address remaining issues.

• Found house at 12 Williams St not significant (6-1)
• Upheld significance of garage at 12 Williams St (5-2)
• Approved gutter replacement at 141 Carlton St with wood fascia/soffit requirement (6-0)
• Approved fencing proposal at 96 Crafts Rd with solid steel fence requirement (7-0)
• Approved new construction addition at 96 Crafts Rd, referred window type to subcommittee (6-0)
• Formed empowered subcommittee for 96 Crafts Rd landscaping and other items (6-0)
• Accepted warrant article letter as edited (6-0)

School Committee

The Brookline School Curriculum Subcommittee is meeting to approve past meeting minutes, review anti-bias material tools, hear a report on an instructional coaching conference, and follow up on the district strategic plan. This is a working session with public observation via Zoom or phone.

• Approval of June 27 and September 19, 2023 meeting minutes
• Review of anti-bias material tools
• Report on instructional coaching conference
• Follow-up on district strategic plan discussion

The Curriculum Subcommittee discussed anti-bias evaluation tools for curriculum materials and reviewed revisions to the district's Strategic Plan, including benchmarks for Year 1. No final decisions were made on these items; staff will continue reviewing tools and present recommendations later. The subcommittee approved prior meeting minutes and noted the selection of HILL for Literacy for the ELA program review.

• Approved June 27 and September 19, 2023 Curriculum Subcommittee minutes (2-0)
• Discussed anti-bias tools; no final selection made
• Reviewed Strategic Plan revisions; no formal action taken
• Noted selection of HILL for Literacy for K-12 ELA program review

Advisory Committee

The MBTACA Ad Hoc Subcommittee of the Brookline Advisory Committee will meet to continue discussion and possibly vote on items STM 1 WA 3,4,5 and STM 4 Article 1. The agenda is otherwise procedural, with public comment allowed at the chair's discretion.

• Discussion and possible votes on WA 3,4,5 and STM 4 Article 1

Advisory Committee

The Brookline Advisory Committee will discuss, deliberate, and possibly vote on MBTA Communities Act (MBTA-CA) warrant articles, including zoning proposals for Harvard Street and the M District. The meeting includes public comment and other business.

• MBTA-CA warrant article for Harvard Street (Select Board)
• MBTA-CA warrant article for M District (Select Board)
• Duplicate M District article (Pehlke et al.)
• STM 4, Article 1

The Advisory Committee voted 15-9-1 to recommend favorable action on Special Town Meeting 4, Article 1, the 'Consensus Plan' for Harvard Street rezoning, as amended by the Ad Hoc Subcommittee (except for item #1, deemed out of scope). The committee also voted 24-1 to recommend favorable action on two fallback articles (STM1-4 and STM1-5) in case the main article fails to achieve a 2/3 vote. The meeting included extensive public comment and discussion on the fiscal, housing, and climate implications of the rezoning.

• Recommended favorable action on STM4-1 (Harvard Street rezoning) as amended (15-9-1)
• Recommended favorable action on STM1-4 as fallback if STM4-1 fails (24-1)
• Recommended favorable action on STM1-5 as fallback if STM4-1 fails (24-1)
• Adjourned at 10:02 p.m.

Select Board

The Select Board will hold a joint convention with the School Committee to interview candidates for the vacant School Committee seat and may vote to select a candidate to serve until the May 2024 town election. The meeting is remote.

• Joint convention with School Committee to interview candidates for vacant School Committee seat
• Possible vote to select candidate to fill vacant seat until May 2024 town election

The Select Board and School Committee met in a Joint Convention to interview candidates for a vacant School Committee seat. Both bodies voted unanimously to appoint Sarah Moghtader to serve until the May 2024 Town Election.

• Appointed Betsy Fitzpatrick as Clerk of the Joint Convention
• Appointed David Pearlman as Chair of the Joint Convention
• Appointed Sarah Moghtader to the School Committee (School Committee vote: 8-0)
• Appointed Sarah Moghtader to the School Committee (Select Board vote: 5-0)

Committee on Town Organization & Structure

The Brookline Committee on Town Organization & Structure will discuss and possibly vote on two articles: creating a Payroll Division within the Town Finance Department, and a resolution to establish a Moderator's Form-of-Government Study Committee. The meeting is remote via Zoom and also includes review of meeting minutes and other business.

• Article 9: Create Payroll Division in Town Finance Department — discussion and possible vote
• Article 18: Resolution on Creating a Moderator's Form-of-Government Study Committee — discussion and possible vote
• Meeting minutes review
• Other business

The Brookline Committee on Town Organization and Structure (CTOS) voted unanimously to support the Advisory Committee's amended version of Warrant Article 9, which would establish a Payroll Division in the Finance Department. CTOS also voted 5-2 to support the Advisory Committee's amended language for Warrant Article 18, which proposes forming a Moderator's Committee to study municipal government structures. The committee approved the minutes of its 10/11/2023 meeting and will next meet on November 8, 2023.

• Approved favorable action on amended Warrant Article 9 (Payroll Division) unanimously
• Approved favorable action on amended Warrant Article 18 (Moderator's Committee) 5-2
• Approved minutes of 10/11/2023 meeting unanimously

Preservation Commission

A subcommittee of the Brookline Preservation Commission is meeting remotely to discuss the restoration of the front porch at 36 Osborne Road. The meeting is open to the public and is scheduled for Monday, October 23, 2023 at 12:00 PM.

• Restoration of the front porch at 36 Osborne Road
• Remote meeting via ZoomGov
• Open to the public

The Preservation Commission approved the porch restoration plan for 36 Osborne Road, subject to several plan revisions. The design matches the 1938 historic photograph and uses no synthetic materials. The motion passed unanimously.

• Approved 36 Osborne porch restoration plan with conditions (unanimous)
• Required plan revisions: column dimensions, balustrade height, mudroom extension callout, vertical lattice, 1/1 double-hung windows, no synthetic materials note

School Committee

The Brookline School Committee will hold a joint convention with the Select Board to interview candidates for a vacant School Committee seat and may vote to select a candidate to serve until the May 2024 town election. The meeting is remote and includes new business and adjournment.

• Joint convention with Select Board to interview candidates for vacant School Committee seat
• Possible vote to select candidate to fill vacant seat until May 2024 town election

The Brookline School Committee and Select Board met in Joint Convention to fill a vacancy on the School Committee. After interviewing six candidates, the Joint Convention voted unanimously to appoint Sarah Moghtader to serve until the May 2024 Town Election. The meeting was procedural and focused solely on the appointment.

• Entered Joint Convention to fill School Committee vacancy (unanimous)
• Appointed Betsy Fitzpatrick as Clerk of the Joint Convention (unanimous)
• Appointed David Pearlman as Chair of the Joint Convention (unanimous)
• Appointed Sarah Moghtader to School Committee until May 2024 election (unanimous)
• Dissolved Joint Convention (unanimous)

Indigenous Peoples Celebration Committee

The Indigenous People's Celebration Committee is meeting to approve minutes from October 6, 2023, and to discuss feedback on the 2023 Indigenous Peoples Day celebration, including what went well and what could be improved. They will also consider planning for next year, discuss the November book club, and decide whether to co-sponsor a BookSmith program. The meeting is virtual via Zoom.

• Approval of minutes from 10/6/23
• Follow-up discussion on IPD 2023: what went well, what could be improved, thoughts for next year
• November book club discussion: advertising, questions, format
• Potential co-sponsorship of BookSmith program
• New business and updates

The committee approved the October 6 meeting minutes and discussed feedback from the 2023 Indigenous Peoples Day event. Members proposed a November library display and discussed upcoming book club selections and community partnerships.

• Approved minutes from 10/6/23
• Agreed to pursue an Indigenous Heritage display at the library in November

Driscoll School Building Advisory Committee

The Driscoll School Building Advisory Committee is meeting to receive updates on construction and schedule from Gilbane, discuss furniture, fixtures, and equipment (FF&E) and the move, review the budget and quality, and plan upcoming meetings. The agenda is primarily procedural, with no votes or decisions listed.

• Construction and schedule updates from Gilbane
• Schedule commentary on FF&E and move
• Budget update
• Quality update
• Upcoming Building Commission meeting on November 14, 2023

Zero Emissions Advisory Board

The Zero Emissions Advisory Board is meeting to discuss the status of a new Sustainability Director position, consider holding Warrant Article hearings, and decide whether to apply for a Mass Save Community Outreach grant. The agenda also includes welcoming new members and scheduling future meetings.

• Status update on new Sustainability Director position
• Discussion of holding Warrant Article hearings
• Application for a Mass Save Community Outreach grant
• Public comment period at 5:00 PM
• Meeting held via Zoom

The Zero Emissions Advisory Board voted unanimously to hold a public hearing on the MBTA Communities Act warrant articles, focusing only on emissions aspects. The board also discussed the new Sustainability Director position and a Mass Save grant for outreach to renters, but took no formal action on those items.

• Voted 5-0 to hold a hearing on MBTA-CA warrant articles, focusing on emissions impacts
• Discussed but took no action on Sustainability Director position status
• Discussed Mass Save Community Education Grant outreach plan, no vote taken

Commission for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Community Relations

The Brookline Commission for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Community Relations is holding a public hearing to discuss and possibly vote on Warrant Article 13, which would rename the Heath School to Roland Hayes. The agenda also includes a guest speaker, discussion of selecting a committee chairperson, and a proposal to reduce the commission's size from 15 to 10 members.

• Public hearing and possible vote on Warrant Article 13 renaming Heath School to Roland Hayes
• Guest speaker Barbara Brown on Hidden Brookline
• Discussion of identifying a committee chairperson
• Discussion on reducing CDEICR size from 15 to 10
• Public comment period

School Committee

The Brookline School Committee is holding a workshop to review the district's strategic plan and develop FY2025 budget guidelines and priorities aligned with that plan. The committee will also discuss possible agenda items for the 2023-2024 school year and introduce a 'Governance Core' framework to define roles for leading the district. This is a discussion and development session, not a final decision-making meeting.

• Discussion and development of FY 2025 budget guidelines and priorities
• Review of the Public Schools of Brookline District Strategic Plan
• Introduction to 'The Governance Core' for defining leadership roles
• Review of possible 2023-2024 School Committee agenda items
• New Business

The School Committee held a workshop to review the draft Public Schools of Brookline District Strategic Plan and 2023-2024 goals. No formal votes were taken on the strategic plan, which is expected to be shared with the community in December and approved by the Committee in late December.

• Reviewed 2023-2024 School Committee goals
• Discussed draft Strategic Plan 2024-2027 objectives and outcomes
• Reviewed 'The Governance Core' text regarding board and superintendent roles
• Proposed future docket items including enrollment projections and literacy data

Advisory Committee

The Brookline Advisory Committee is meeting to preview and discuss MBTA Communities Act (MBTA-CA) warrant articles, which are items that may come before Town Meeting. The agenda includes public comment and other business, with no votes or final decisions listed.

• Preview and discussion of MBTA-CA warrant articles
• Public comment period at 7:00 pm
• Other Business at 8:30 pm

The Brookline Advisory Committee held a public hearing and discussion on MBTA Communities Act warrant articles, including the main STM 4 Article 1, but took no votes. The subcommittee adopted three EDAB recommendations and will bring further recommendations to the next meeting. Public comment urged support for the consensus amendment.

• No votes taken at this meeting
• Subcommittee adopted three EDAB recommendations for STM 4 Article 1
• Subcommittee scheduled additional vote for October 24

Planning Board

The Brookline Planning Board is holding public hearings on several zoning amendment articles for the Fall 2023 Town Meetings, all related to the MBTA Communities Act. The articles propose adding a multi-family overlay district, site plan review, and affordable housing changes, with variations on including Harvard Street form-based zoning. The hearings are scheduled for October 18 and 25, with a contingency date of November 1. Public comment on Harvard Street zoning is deferred to October 25.

• Public hearing on rezoning 99, 111, and 117 Mason Terrace from SC-7 to M-1.5
• STM 1 Article 3: MBTA Communities Act consensus article adding Harvard Street form-based zones
• STM 1 Article 4: Contingency article without Harvard Street zoning
• STM 1 Article 5: Petitioner version of MBTA Communities Act zoning
• STM 3 and STM 4 Articles 1: Alternative versions with commercial zoning mandates

The Brookline Planning Board voted to recommend rezoning three parcels at 99, 111, and 117 Mason Terrace from SC-7 to T-5, a change that would allow subdivision and construction of a single-family home. The board also heard a presentation on the proposed M-District Plus zoning overlay for MBTA Communities Act compliance, but took no vote on it. The public hearing was continued to October 25, 2023.

• Approved favorable action to rezone 99, 111, and 117 Mason Terrace from SC-7 to T-5 (5-0-1, Hines abstaining)
• Continued public hearing on M-District Plus and Harvard Street zoning to October 25, 2023

Planning Board

The Brookline Planning Board is meeting virtually to review four sign and façade cases, including new signs for a cannabis dispensary and a retail incubator, plus replacements for existing signs. The meeting also includes a public comment period for items not on the agenda. No other substantive decisions are listed.

• 1030 Commonwealth Avenue – new blade sign and window signs for Comm Ave Canna
• 440 Harvard Street – wall sign and façade paint for Pop-Up Brookline Retail Incubator
• 850 Boylston Street – replace monument sign and façade wall sign for Mass General Brigham
• 1386 Beacon Street – new wall sign for Diana Stelin Art/Education/Design

The Brookline Planning Board approved four sign and façade review cases, all subject to conditions. The board approved a blade sign and recommended approval of window signs for 1030 Commonwealth Avenue, approved a sign and façade plan for 440 Harvard Street, approved a monument sign and recommended approval of a façade sign for 850 Boylston Street, and approved a wall sign for 1386 Beacon Street. All approvals were unanimous or with one abstention.

• Approved blade sign and recommended window signs at 1030 Commonwealth Ave (unanimous)
• Approved sign and façade plan at 440 Harvard St (4-0-1, Hyatt abstained)
• Approved monument sign and recommended façade sign at 850 Boylston St (unanimous)
• Approved wall sign at 1386 Beacon St (unanimous)

Advisory Council of Public Health

The Advisory Council on Public Health will hold a public hearing to discuss and possibly vote on Town Meeting Warrant Article #17, a resolution on PFAS. The council will also discuss the MBTA Communities Act and receive a report on its development, planning, and strategy, plus a draft FY25 budget presentation.

• Discussion and possible vote on Town Meeting Warrant Article #17: Resolution on PFAS
• Discussion of MBTA Communities Act
• Report on ACPH Development, Planning, and Strategy by Ralph Fuccillo
• Draft FY25 Budget Presentation in Director's Report

The Advisory Council on Public Health voted to recommend Warrant Article #17, a resolution urging the Town to eliminate fluorinated chemicals from its purchases and support state PFAS regulation, by a 4-0 roll call vote. The Council also agreed by consensus to support the Consensus Warrant Article on zoning, which would rezone Harvard Street for multifamily housing up to four stories, potentially adding 800 housing units over time, including 120 affordable units. The minutes were approved unanimously, and the Council received a report on its development and a budget update.

• Recommended Warrant Article #17 on PFAS reduction to Town Meeting (4-0)
• Supported Consensus Warrant Article on zoning and housing by consensus
• Approved September meeting minutes unanimously

Transportation Board

The Brookline Transportation Board will discuss and vote on two parking-related requests: a resident daytime parking permit exemption for Jenness Road and a passenger loading zone at 31 Boylston Street. The board will also consider delegating authority to staff for various traffic and parking decisions, including taxi stands, accessible parking, and no-turn-on-red requests.

• Request by Jonathan Buckwold of 265 Summit Avenue for exemption to resident permit parking rules for a daytime permit on Jenness Road
• Request by Little Children School House for passenger loading zone 4:00PM-6:00PM Mon-Fri at 31 Boylston Street
• Discussion and possible action on delegating authority to Transportation Division staff for taxi stands, accessible parking, no turn on red, no parking, loading zones, crosswalks, stop signs, teacher parking permit relocations, and resident day/night permit parking exceptions

The Brookline Transportation Board unanimously approved a resident daytime parking permit exemption for 265 Summit Avenue on Jenness Road, a passenger loading zone at 31 Boylston Street, and delegated authority to staff for various traffic-related actions. All votes were 6-0. The board also discussed upcoming micro mobility and Vision Zero items.

• Approved resident daytime parking permit exemption for 265 Summit Avenue on Jenness Road (6-0)
• Approved passenger loading zone at 31 Boylston Street, 4-6 PM Mon-Fri, 10-min limit (6-0)
• Delegated authority to Transportation Division staff for items like taxi stand relocation, accessible parking designation, and stop sign placements (6-0)

School Committee

The Brookline School Finance Subcommittee will meet remotely to review preliminary October 1 enrollment data, accept gifts, and receive reports on the FY23 General Fund budget (as of June 30, 2023) and the FY24 first quarter budget. The meeting also includes introductions of new staff and approval of prior minutes.

• Introduction of new Administration and Finance Office staff
• Preliminary October 1, 2023 enrollment information
• Acceptance of gifts
• FY23 General Fund budget report as of June 30, 2023
• FY24 General Fund budget first quarter report

The Finance Subcommittee recommended that the School Committee accept several donations totaling $47,461.74. The committee also reviewed preliminary October 1 enrollment data and the FY23 end-of-year budget report.

• Recommended School Committee accept gifts totaling $47,461.74 (4-0)
• Approved September 20, 2023 minutes (3-0-1)

Advisory Committee

The MBTACA Ad Hoc Subcommittee of Brookline's Advisory Committee will meet to continue discussion and possible votes on STM 1 WA 3, 4, 5 and STM 4 Article 1, which relate to MBTA Communities Act zoning. The meeting is public, with comment at the chair's discretion.

• Discussion and possible votes on STM 1 WA 3, 4, 5
• Discussion and possible votes on STM 4 Article 1
• Public comment taken at chair's discretion
• Written comments due by noon one day prior

The MBTA CA Ad Hoc Subcommittee voted unanimously to recommend acceptance of amendments to STM4 Article 1, including changes to parking ratios for hotels and religious educational institutions, re-inserting 10-12 Vernon St into the parcel list, and correcting rent language for the ground floor commercial incentive. The amendments incorporate agreements between Yes in Brookline and Brookline by Design, plus EDAB changes. A memo from Dick Benka was not fully reviewed and will be discussed at the next meeting.

• Recommended all amendments from Yes in Brookline and Brookline by Design agreement (unanimous)
• Recommended EDAB changes to non-resident parking: hotel parking max 0.5 spaces per guest room; religious educational institutions same as other educational uses (unanimous)
• Recommended re-inserting 10-12 Vernon St into the parcel list (unanimous)
• Recommended correcting Section 4.08.9 to state max rents for ground floor commercial incentive at 70% of Area Median Income (unanimous)

Housing Authority

The Brookline Housing Authority Board of Commissioners will vote on a consent agenda including multiple contracts and change orders, a $6.9 million state funding amendment, and a $1.2 million stair hallways renovation contract. They will also consider resolutions for the 32 Marion Street Apartments development, an administrative plan amendment, and new Section 8 payment standards.

• Contract award to Homer Contracting, Inc. for $1,213,000 for stair hallways renovation at High Street Veterans
• Accept EOHLC amendment #15 to CFA 5001 for $6,929,713 including HILAPP awards and other funding
• Change order #36 for $158,539.68 with Daniel O'Connell's Sons Inc. for gas and water service lines at 50 Pleasant Street
• Contract with Brookline Lock Company for $10,776 for mailbox replacement at 22 High Street
• Section 8 Payment Standards at 92% of HUD FY 2024 Small Area Fair Market Rents

Select Board

The Brookline Select Board will hold public hearings and vote on several items, including proposed electric vehicle charging rates, a housing production plan update, and warrant articles for the November 14 Special Town Meeting. The board will also consider numerous licenses, contracts, and hiring authorizations.

• Public hearing on warrant articles including rent stabilization (Article 16) and PFAS resolution (Article 17)
• Public hearing and vote on proposed electric vehicle charging and parking meter rates
• Accept $250,000 grant for police body-worn cameras
• Approve license transfers for Miraku at 9 Babcock St and Zhangliang Malatang at 411 Harvard St
• Approve FY2024 CDBG sub-recipient agreements totaling over $700,000

The Select Board approved a $0.25/kWh electric vehicle charging fee with a $1.25/15-minute overstay fee after a 20-minute grace period, maintaining the town's parking fee. The board also approved multiple licenses, grants, and hiring authorizations, and voted favorable action on several warrant articles for the November 14, 2023 Special Town Meeting. The Housing Production Plan update was tabled for a later meeting.

• Approved EV charging fee of $0.25/kWh and overstay fee of $1.25/15 minutes (4-0, Aschkenasy absent)
• Approved $250,000 grant for police body-worn cameras
• Approved license transfers for Miraku at 9 Babcock Street (wine/malt, common victualler, entertainment, alternate manager)
• Approved license for Friar Tuck's Comics and Collectibles secondhand article license
• Approved common victualler and entertainment licenses for Zhangliang Malatang at 411 Harvard Street
• Approved FY2024 CDBG sub-recipient agreements totaling $734,733.98
• Voted favorable action on Warrant Article 6 (Mason Terrace zoning) 5-0
• Voted favorable action on Warrant Article 13 (rename Heath School) 5-0

Preservation Commission

The Brookline Preservation Commission will hold a remote public hearing on October 17, 2023, to review proposed warrant articles for the Fall 2023 Special Town Meeting. The articles, submitted by the Select Board and others, would amend the zoning by-law to comply with the MBTA Communities Act, including adding a multi-family overlay district, site plan review, and affordable housing requirements. The commission will discuss these proposals but is not voting on them.

• Public hearing on proposed warrant articles for Fall 2023 Special Town Meeting
• Article 3: MBTA Communities Act consensus article adding Harvard Street Form-Based Zones Standards and MBTA-CA Multi-Family Overlay District
• Article 4: Contingency article without Harvard Street changes
• Article 5: Alternative MBTA Communities Act zoning amendment
• STM 4 Article 1: Correction to mandate commercial zoning in Harvard Street zones

The Commission reviewed the M-District-Plus MBTA-CA Compliance Plan and the Select Board's consensus plan regarding Multifamily Districts and Harvard Street. Members discussed the role of form-based zoning in protecting historic resources versus inhibiting growth. No formal votes were recorded; a final letter of approval was proposed for a future meeting.

Advisory Committee

The Brookline Advisory Committee will discuss and vote on several warrant articles for Town Meeting, including transferring unexpended bond proceeds, collective bargaining agreements, budget amendments, and a Home Rule Petition for rent stabilization and tenant eviction protections. The meeting includes a public comment period and a report from the Capital Subcommittee.

• Warrant Article 10: Transfer of unexpended bond proceeds and rescissions (Select Board)
• Warrant Article 2: Collective Bargaining Agreements (Human Resources)
• STM 2, Warrant Article 1: Budget Amendments (Select Board)
• Warrant Article 16: Home Rule Petition to implement Rent Stabilization and tenant eviction protections (Lebovitz et al.)

The Brookline Advisory Committee voted 15-3-4 to recommend No Action on Warrant Article 16, a Home Rule Petition to implement rent stabilization and tenant eviction protections. The committee also recommended favorable action on transferring $3,928,938.35 in unexpended Ridley School bond proceeds to the Pierce School project, and on appropriating $126,823 in TNC funds for transportation projects. It recommended No Action on Warrant Article 2 regarding collective bargaining agreements, as no agreements were pending.

• Recommended No Action on WA 16 rent stabilization Home Rule Petition (15-3-4)
• Recommended Favorable Action on WA 10 transferring $3,928,938.35 from Ridley School bonds to Pierce School project (22-0)
• Recommended Favorable Action on WA 1 appropriating $126,823 in TNC funds for transportation projects (22-0-1)
• Recommended No Action on WA 2 collective bargaining agreements (22-0)

Conservation Commission

The Brookline Conservation Commission is meeting virtually to continue a public hearing on a Notice of Intent for 29 Sears Road and open a new hearing on a Request for Determination of Applicability for 30 Lyon Road. The agenda also includes staff updates on a Certificate of Compliance for 100 Cottage Street, a Community Preservation Act discussion, an Open Space Plan review, and a Climate Change Regulation discussion.

• Continued public hearing on Notice of Intent DEP 120-200 BWB 23-04 for 29 Sears Road
• Public hearing on Request for Determination of Applicability for 30 Lyon Road
• Request for Certificate of Compliance and Annual Report DEP 120-183 BWB 20-03 for 100 Cottage Street
• Community Preservation Act discussion
• Climate Change Regulation discussion

The Commission approved a permanent Certificate of Compliance for a conservation restriction and restoration project at 100 Cottage Street. The board also closed a public hearing regarding a Notice of Intent for 29 Sears Road.

• Approved Certificate of Compliance for 100 Cottage Street (5-0)
• Closed public hearing for Notice of Intent at 29 Sears Road (5-0)
• Approved September 26th meeting minutes (5-0)

Trustees of Walnut Hills Cemetery

The Walnut Hills Cemetery Trustees will discuss and vote on two proposals: revising the layout in Section 21 to create additional upright marker full burial lots at the east end, and creating new upright marker full burial lots in proposed new sections. The meeting is a hybrid session held at Brookline Town Hall and virtually.

• Vote on proposed layout revision in Section 21 to add upright marker full burial lots at east end
• Vote on creation of new upright marker full burial lots in proposed new sections

The Trustees voted unanimously to recommend the Town adopt a layout revision adding 136 new full-body upright burial lots in Section 21. They also voted unanimously to recommend proceeding with site investigations, final design, and cost estimates for a 56-grave expansion at the Library Edge, amending the original motion to focus on that smaller area. The votes were procedural recommendations to the Town, not final approvals for construction.

• Approved motion to recommend Town use Layout Revision Study for 136 new upright burial lots in Section 21 (5-0)
• Approved amended motion to recommend Town proceed with site investigations, final design, and cost estimate for 56-grave Section 24 Expansion at Library Edge (5-0)
• Tabled discussion of green burials and scattering to future agenda
• Agreed to add pricing policy for upright vs. flush markers to December agenda

Housing Advisory Board

The Affordable Housing Overlay District Study Subcommittee of the Housing Advisory Board is meeting virtually to review and approve minutes, consider switching its meetings from Zoom webinar to Zoom meeting format, receive an update on MBTA Communities Act rezoning proposals for Town Meeting, and review a draft Request for Proposals for an AHOD consultant. The agenda also includes setting a future meeting schedule and other business.

• Review and approve meeting minutes
• Proposal to change AHOD Study Committee meetings from Zoom webinar to Zoom meeting
• Update on MBTA Communities Act rezoning proposals for Town Meeting
• Review draft Request for Proposals for AHOD Consultant
• Future meeting schedule

The Brookline Housing Advisory Board voted unanimously to allocate $50,000 (subject to Select Board approval) for a consultant to guide its work on an Affordable Housing Overlay District (AHOD). The board reviewed a draft RFP and suggested revisions, including evaluating whether an AHOD is beneficial and adding an equity lens. Jonathan will revise the RFP and submit it for review, with final sign-off planned for November.

• Approved $50K allocation for AHOD consultant (unanimous, subject to Select Board approval)
• Voted to change sessions from zoom webinars to zoom meetings (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from July 17 meeting (unanimous)
• Reviewed draft RFP and suggested revisions for consultant selection

School Committee

The Policy Review Subcommittee will review and potentially vote on several policies, including finalizing the 2023-2024 School Committee Goals, an inclusion policy, and revisions to the student assignment policy. They will also discuss adopting a town by-law on menstrual hygiene products access and new policies for parent/guardian access to school buildings and standardizing district communications. Public comments are welcome in writing or live via Zoom.

• Review and finalize 2023-2024 School Committee Goals
• Review and possible vote on 'Inclusion in the Life of the School' policy
• Discussion and possible vote on revisions to Assignment of Students to Schools policy
• Discussion of adopting Town By-Law 8.39 (Menstrual Hygiene Products Access), including amendments approved by Town Meeting on June 6, 2023
• Discussion of new policies for Parent/Guardian Access to School Buildings and Standardizing District Communications

The Policy Review Subcommittee voted to support the adoption of Town By-Law 8.39 regarding menstrual hygiene products and reproductive health care. Members also refined the 2023-2024 School Committee goals and discussed draft policies for building access and activity inclusion.

• Approved minutes of the September 22, 2023 meeting (3-0)
• Voted to support adoption of Town By-Law 8.39 and Warrant Article 20 Amendments (3-0)
• Revised Goal 2 of 2023-2024 goals to support the District Strategic Plan
• Tabled 'Inclusion in Life of the School Activities' policy pending legal and staff consultation
• Tabled building access policy pending feedback from school leaders

School Committee

The Brookline School Committee's Government Relations Subcommittee will meet remotely to review and possibly vote on Massachusetts Association of School Committees resolutions, discuss MCAS-related bills and a ballot question, and begin preliminary discussion of possible FY25 state budget requests. The meeting is open to the public via Zoom or phone.

• Possible vote on MASC resolutions
• Discussion of MCAS-related bills and ballot question
• Preliminary discussion of possible FY25 state budget requests

The Government Relations Subcommittee voted unanimously to recommend that the School Committee support six of the eight 2023 MASC resolutions, abstain on two (Regional Transportation and School Bus Stop Arm Surveillance), and support a proposal to amend MASC by-laws. The subcommittee also discussed MCAS-related bills and possible FY25 state budget requests, but took no votes on those items.

• Recommended support for MASC Resolution 1 (Full, Stable Funding for METCO) (3-0)
• Recommended support for MASC Resolution 2 (Transportation Bidding Procedures) (3-0)
• Recommended abstention on MASC Resolution 3 (Regional Transportation) (3-0)
• Recommended support for MASC Resolution 4 (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) (3-0)
• Recommended support for MASC Resolution 5 (Massachusetts School Building Authority) (3-0)
• Recommended abstention on MASC Resolution 6 (School Bus Stop Arm Surveillance Act) (3-0)
• Recommended support for MASC Resolution 7 (MCAS) (3-0)
• Recommended support for MASC Resolution 8 (Safe Storage of Firearms) (3-0)

Community Preservation Act Committee

The Community Preservation Act Committee is holding a public meeting to approve minutes, hear public comment, and review CPA eligibility forms submitted for community preservation projects. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific projects or funding amounts listed.

• Approval of meeting minutes
• Public comment for items not on the agenda
• Review of CPA Eligibility Forms received

The Community Preservation Committee approved minutes from four prior workgroup meetings and scheduled a special meeting for October 30 to review eligibility applications. No substantive funding decisions were made; the committee discussed application status and housing criteria.

• Approved CPA Plan Workgroup minutes from 6/9/23, 7/14/23, 8/11/23, and 9/8/23
• Deferred approval of CPA minutes from 9/11/23 to next agenda
• Scheduled special meeting for October 30 to review eligibility applications

Economic Development Advisory Board

The Economic Development Advisory Board is holding a continued public hearing on Fall 2023 Special Town Meeting Warrant Article 1, the MBTA Communities Act consensus article. The board will discuss its comments, the ground-floor commercial mandate and incentive, hear public comments, and then deliberate and vote.

• Public hearing continued from October 2 and September 27, 2023
• Discussion of ground-floor commercial mandate and incentive
• Deliberation and vote on possible motion
• Warrant Article 1: MBTA Communities Act consensus article

The Economic Development Advisory Board unanimously recommended favorable action on Special Town Meeting 4, Warrant Article 1. This recommendation is contingent upon the final version addressing specific definitions, parking ratios, and zoning boundaries. The Board also tasked two members to develop specific zoning language recommendations with staff.

• Approved recommendation for STM4-WA1 subject to conditions (unanimous)
• Recommended defining 'commercial uses' as all non-residential uses in the Harvard Street zoning use table
• Recommended hotel parking ratio maximum of 0.5 spaces per guest room
• Recommended removing 137, 143, 149 Harvard Street and 20 Harvard Court from the Harvard Street Main Street Corridor District
• Recommended excluding subzone H-MSN and specific periphery properties from the ground floor commercial mandate
• Recommended modifying Section 4.08.10 to provide EDAB more flexibility for the Ground Floor Commercial Incentive Program
• Recommended correcting Section 4.08.9 to reflect a maximum rent of 70% Area Median Income (AMI)
• Decided not to include recommended changes to design standards, set-backs, or loading zones in the motion

Brookline Commission on Disability

The Brookline Commission on Disability voted 6-0 to take favorable action on Warrant Article 16, which proposes rent stabilization and tenant eviction protections. The commission also approved allocating $50,000 to professional tech and $10,240.83 to special programs from the HP Fine Fund, and approved $5,000 for new assistive listening devices. Minutes from July and September 2023 were approved, and Warrant Article 3 was tabled.

• Approved favorable action on Warrant Article 16 (rent stabilization) (6-0)
• Approved $50,000 to Professional/Tech and $10,240.83 to Special Programs from HP Fine Fund (5-1)
• Approved $5,000 for 20 assistive listening devices and portable mic set (4-0-2)
• Approved July 2023 meeting minutes (5-0-1)
• Approved September 2023 meeting minutes (5-0-1)
• Tabled Warrant Article 3

MLK Celebration Committee

This is a meeting agenda for a council or committee. The body will vote to approve the minutes from the July 13, 2023 meeting. They will continue discussing ideas for the 2024 Martin Luther King Jr. event and plan a library display for January. The agenda also includes a proposed time change for the next meeting due to a staff conflict.

• Approve 7/13/23 minutes
• Continued discussion of 2024 MLK Event ideas
• Library Display (January)
• Next meeting time change due to staff conflict

The committee approved July minutes and discussed plans for the MLK event on January 15, 2024, including potential speakers, performers, and outreach. No formal decisions were made on the event's content or participants.

• Approved July minutes
• Discussed outreach to Margaret Burnham, African American Museum, Kerri Greenidge, Regie Gibson, and Coolidge Corner Theater
• Assigned Bernard to contact Rabbi Hamilton and Regie Gibson
• Assigned Margaret and Rob to contact African American Museum
• Rob to meet with Blair Bean at Coolidge Corner Theater
• Jack to install library display at CC Library in January
• Caitlin suggested small display at main BV Library

School Committee

The Brookline School Committee is meeting to discuss and vote on several items, including authorizing the BHS Innovation Fund to serve beer and wine at its 25th Anniversary Celebration, and holding a public hearing on 2023 Special Town Meeting warrant articles, including renaming the Heath School. The committee will also hear updates on student services, including a new IEP preview and Youth Risk Behavior Survey data, and discuss the district's response to terrorism and war in Israel and Gaza.

• Possible vote to authorize beer and wine at BHS Innovation Fund 25th Anniversary Celebration on Oct 26 at Brookline High School, 22 Tappan Street
• Public hearing on 2023 Special Town Meeting Article 13 to rename Heath School the 'Roland Hayes School'
• Public hearing on Article 10: transfer of unexpended bond proceeds and rescissions
• Discussion and possible vote on scheduling public hearing for Article 17 on PFAS resolution
• 1st reading of proposed revision to Policy J 1 f, Assignment of Students to Schools

The Brookline School Committee unanimously approved the BHS Innovation Fund's request to serve beer and wine at its 25th Anniversary Celebration on October 26, 2023, with students present for part of the event. The committee also unanimously approved the consent agenda, appointed delegates to the MASC Annual Meeting, approved a statement supporting the renaming of Heath School to Roland Hayes School, and scheduled a public hearing on a PFAS warrant article. No action was taken on the transfer of bond proceeds for the Pierce School project, which was tabled for further discussion.

• Approved consent agenda including past record and student trip to Brown University (6-0)
• Authorized BHS Innovation Fund to serve beer and wine at Oct 26 event (6-0)
• Appointed Suzanne Federspiel as MASC Delegate and Helen Charlupski as Alternate (8-0)
• Approved School Committee statement supporting Warrant Article 13 to rename Heath School (8-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for Warrant Article 17 on PFAS (8-0)
• Took no action on Warrant Article 10 (transfer of bond proceeds); tabled to Oct 26

Park & Recreation Commission

The Park and Recreation Commission is holding the second design review meeting for the Skyline Phase 2 project. They will discuss project goals, a proposed path along Incinerator Drive, site furnishings, meadow planting, comfort station and shelter repairs, tree conditions and replacements, and a potential off-leash dog park. Community feedback will be taken.

• Proposed path along Incinerator Drive
• Additional site furnishings and meadow planting
• Comfort station and shelter repairs
• Existing tree conditions and replacements
• Potential off-leash dog park

The Park & Recreation Commission discussed design specifications for a new path along Incinerator Drive, including materials and safety fencing. Members reviewed options for comfort station roofing, bench placement, and the potential for a trial meadow. No final votes were taken on the proposed designs or the potential dog park locations.

• Proposed porous asphalt and welded wire fencing for the Incinerator Drive path
• Agreed on black backless benches for players
• Proposed 'Peruvian antique' or dark siding with a muted red door for the comfort station
• Proposed slate or gray roofing for the pavilion and comfort station
• Discussed two potential dog park locations; decision tabled for further study
• Proposed a trial meadow with native grasses in a designated area

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Brookline Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a virtual public hearing on October 12, 2023, to consider several zoning appeals, including a request to extend the public hearing process for the Coolidge Residences 40B project. The board will also review applications for a garage and rear addition at 32 Manchester Road, a dormer expansion at 15 Kendall Street, and continue two cases without discussion. Approval of the August 17 meeting minutes and other business are also on the agenda.

• 32 Manchester Road: construct detached garage, small rear addition, and deck (case 2023-000035, continued from 8/17)
• 15 Kendall Street: construct new dormer and widen existing dormer, ~25 sq.ft. increase (case 2023-000041, continued from 9/14)
• Coolidge Residences of Brookline, LLC: request extension through Oct 15, 2024 for 40B hearing at 8-10 Waldo St., 10-18 Pleasant St., 16 John St.
• 955 Hammond Street: expand one-car garage to two and house addition (continued without discussion)
• 111 Bonad Road: second story addition to single-family dwelling (continued without discussion)

Advisory Committee

The Brookline Advisory Committee will discuss and possibly vote on three warrant articles: a zoning amendment for Mason Terrace, a resolution on PFAS, and a resolution to create a Moderator's Form of Government Committee. Public comment is open at the start of the meeting.

• Warrant Article 6: Zoning amendment for Mason Terrace
• Warrant Article 17: Resolution on PFAS (fluorinated hydrocarbons)
• Warrant Article 18: Resolution to create a Moderator's Form of Government Committee

The Advisory Committee voted 11-6-4 to recommend favorable action on Warrant Article 6, a zoning amendment for 99-117 Mason Terrace, as amended by David Pollak to substitute T-5 zoning for M-1.5. The committee also recommended favorable action on Warrant Article 17 (PFAS resolution) 20-0-1 and Warrant Article 18 (Moderator's Form of Government Committee) 21-0-1. Two amendments to narrow or alter the Mason Terrace zoning failed.

• Recommended favorable action on WA 6 (Mason Terrace zoning) as amended to T-5 (11-6-4)
• Passed Pollak amendment substituting T-5 for M-1.5 zoning (14-3-4)
• Failed Pehlke amendment 1 to limit scope to 99 Mason Terrace (9-10-3)
• Failed Pehlke amendment 2 to substitute M-0.5 zoning (8-10-3)
• Recommended favorable action on WA 17 (PFAS resolution) as amended (20-0-1)
• Passed Berger amendment adding 'certified to be free' to PFAS language (16-0-5)
• Recommended favorable action on WA 18 (Moderator's Form of Government Committee) as amended (21-0-1)

Brookline Commission for the Arts

The Brookline Commission for the Arts is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes and a treasurer's report. They will also discuss a grant postponement request, a possible council program, a venue for a mini-public art frolic, and extending the Poet Laureate's term.

• Minutes of September 13, 2023 meeting
• Treasurer's report
• Grants 2023/24 – BMS request for postponement
• Venue for a mini-public art frolic
• Poet Laureate Extension

The Commission unanimously approved allocating 20% of FY24 state funds to a council program for public art fundraising and maintenance. They also unanimously approved deferring the Brookline Music School's music therapy grant until 2024 and requested an extension of the Poet Laureate's term to four years.

• Approved deferral of Brookline Music School music therapy grant to 2024 (unanimous)
• Approved allocation of 20% of FY24 state funds for public art council program (unanimous)
• Approved request to extend Poet Laureate term from three to four years (unanimous)
• Agreed to approach Arcade on Harvard Street as venue for public art fundraising event
• Approved September 13 meeting minutes

Advisory Committee

The Schools Subcommittee of Brookline's Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss Public Schools of Brookline (PSB) enrollment data and strategic plan, if available, along with a letter from Dr. Givens regarding submitted questions. The meeting is open to the public but no public comment will be taken.

• Review of PSB enrollment information
• Discussion of PSB strategic plan
• Discussion of 9/23 letter from Dr. Givens re: submitted questions
• Discussion of work/research subcommittee members feel is appropriate

Advisory Committee

The Capital Subcommittee of the Advisory Committee will continue a public hearing on Warrant Article 16, a Home Rule Petition to implement rent stabilization and tenant eviction protections. The subcommittee will review, discuss, and possibly vote on the article. Public comment is invited, and written comments are due by noon the day before the meeting.

• Warrant Article 16: Home Rule Petition for Rent Stabilization and tenant eviction protections
• Possible vote on Warrant Article 16
• Public hearing with opportunity for public comment
• Written comments accepted until noon on October 10, 2023
• Meeting held via Zoom on October 11, 2023 at 6:30 p.m.

Advisory Committee

The MBTACA Ad Hoc Subcommittee of the Brookline Advisory Committee will hold a public planning meeting to continue discussion of STM 1 WA 3,4,5 and STM 4 Article 1, with possible votes on these items. The meeting is open to the public, and public comment will be taken at the chair's discretion.

• Discussion and possible votes on WA 3,4,5 and STM 4 Article 1
• Public comment at chair's discretion
• Written comments accepted until noon one day prior

The Ad-hoc Capital Subcommittee voted 4-1 to take no action on WA16, a Home Rule Petition for rent stabilization and tenant eviction protection. The vote followed a public hearing with testimony from the town assessor, landlords, a professor, and a former select board member, mostly opposing the proposal. The subcommittee discussed referring the proposal to a study committee but did not pursue it.

• Motion for No Action on WA16 rent stabilization petition passed (4-1)
• Discussion of referring proposal to a study committee not pursued

Select Board

The Brookline Select Board will hold public hearings on two Grant of Location requests from Crown Castle and Verizon to install underground conduit along Washington Street, and will consider several liquor, food, and entertainment license applications, including transfers and new licenses for restaurants in Brookline.

• Grant of Location for Verizon/Crown Castle conduit at Washington St near White Place
• Grant of Location for Verizon/Crown Castle conduit at Washington St and Pond Ave
• Transfer of wine/malt beverage license to Miraku at 9 Babcock St with entertainment
• Common Victualler license for Zhangliang Malatang at 411 Harvard St (40 seats)
• Withdrawal of two alcohol package store transfers at 27 and 318 Harvard St

The Select Board reviewed and recommended approval for two utility location requests and several business licenses. These included restaurant operations, a collectibles shop, and the withdrawal of package store transfer requests.

• Recommended approval of Grant of Location for Crown Castle and Verizon at Washington St and White Place
• Recommended approval of Grant of Location for Crown Castle and Verizon at Washington St and Pond Ave
• Recommended approval of license transfers and permits for Miraku at 9 Babcock Street
• Recommended approval of Secondhand Article License for Friar Tuck’s Comics and Collectibles
• Recommended approval of Common Victualler and Entertainment licenses for Zhangliang Malatang
• Recommended approval to withdraw license transfer for Sorriso Market at 27 Harvard St
• Recommended approval to withdraw license transfer for Sorriso Market at 318 Harvard St

Council on Aging

The Brookline Council on Aging is holding a hybrid meeting featuring guest speakers from FriendshipWorks to discuss how the organization can assist residents. The agenda includes reports from several committees, the Select Board, School Committee, and the Director, followed by old and new business.

• Guest presentation by Michael Mullins and Kelley Pope of FriendshipWorks
• Reports from Nominating, Springwell, Budget, Recreation, and Redesign committees
• Report from Select Board member John VanScoyoc
• Report from School Committee
• Director's report by Ruthann Dobek

The Brookline Council on Aging accepted the September 13, 2023 meeting minutes as amended by unanimous vote. The meeting featured a presentation from FriendshipWorks about volunteer programs for older adults, and reports on town matters including an MBTA Communities Act zoning proposal and a $100,000 transportation funding vote. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Accepted September 13, 2023 meeting minutes as amended (unanimous)
• Noted $100,000 TNC funding approved by Transportation Board, to go to Town Meeting

Brookline Commission on Disability

The Brookline Commission on Disability will hold public hearings and votes on two warrant articles, discuss and vote on the HP Fine Fund budget allocation for a town-wide assistant listening device system, and receive updates from liaisons. The meeting also includes public comment periods and approval of prior meeting minutes.

• Public Hearing and vote on Warrant Article 3
• Public Hearing and vote on Warrant Article 16
• HP Fine Fund Budget Allocation Vote for town-wide assistant listening device system
• Update from Transportation Board Liaison
• Update from Select Board

The Brookline Commission on Disability voted 6-0 to support Warrant Article 16, which proposes rent stabilization and tenant eviction protections, including capping annual rent increases at 3% plus inflation (max 7%) and ending 'no cause' evictions. The commission also approved a $60,240.83 budget allocation ($50,000 to professional tech, $10,240.83 to special projects) and supported purchasing $5,000 in assistive listening devices. Minutes from July and September were approved, and Warrant Article 3 was tabled.

• Approved favorable action on Warrant Article 16 (rent stabilization) 6-0
• Approved $50,000 to Professional/Tech and $10,240.83 to Special Programs 5-1
• Approved $5,000 for assistive listening devices 4-0-2
• Approved July 2023 meeting minutes 5-0-1
• Approved September 2023 meeting minutes 5-0-1
• Tabled Warrant Article 3 at petitioners' request

Committee on Town Organization & Structure

The Brookline Select Board is holding a public hearing on three November 2023 Town Meeting warrant articles. The board will discuss and possibly vote on these articles, including a resolution to create a Moderator's Form-of-Government Study Committee and a proposal to create a Payroll Division in the Town Finance Department. One article, allowing the Town Clerk to make non-substantive revisions to bylaws, has been withdrawn.

• Public hearing on Article 18: Resolution on Creating a Moderator's Form-of-Government Study Committee
• Public hearing on Article 9: Create a Payroll Division in the Town Finance Department
• Article 12 (Town Clerk bylaw revisions) withdrawn
• Committee discussion and possible votes on Articles 18, 9, and 12

The Committee on Town Organization and Structure held a public hearing and discussion on Warrant Article 18 (proposing a Moderator's Committee to study municipal government forms) and Warrant Article 9 (establishing a Payroll Division). The committee voted to recommend favorable action on both articles, with Article 18 as amended by the Advisory Subcommittee. Article 12 was withdrawn by the Town Clerk. The committee also unanimously approved the minutes of the September 18, 2023 meeting.

• Recommended favorable action on Warrant Article 18 (Moderator's Committee) as amended (unanimous)
• Recommended favorable action on Warrant Article 9 (Payroll Division) (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of 9/18/2023 meeting (unanimous)
• Noted Warrant Article 12 was withdrawn by Town Clerk

Library Trustees

The Brookline Library Trustees are meeting to receive reports from the chair, public, secretary, treasurer, and library director, and to discuss old and new business. The only substantive item is a review of vault materials for potential deaccession. The rest of the agenda is routine procedural reporting.

• Review vault materials for deaccession (New Business)
• Comments from the Public (5-minute limit)
• Library Director's Report: statistical and financial updates
• Treasurer's Report
• Secretary's Report: minutes and correspondence

Small Business Development Committee

The Brookline Small Business Development Committee will meet to discuss an update on the parking meter rate increase, approve past meeting minutes, and receive staff updates on programs like Brookline Art Makes Community and Project: Pop-Up Brookline. The meeting is primarily informational and procedural.

• Parking Meter Rate Increase Update and Next Steps
• Approval of September 12, 2023 draft meeting minutes
• Brookline Art Makes Community (BAMC) update
• Project: Pop-Up Brookline update
• Small Business Relief Grant Funding update

The committee received an update that the Transportation Board voted in September to increase parking meter rates to $1.75 per hour, with implementation pending Select Board approval. The committee discussed but took no vote on a proposal for associate memberships, agreeing to gather more feedback. They approved the September 12, 2023 meeting minutes (7-0-1). Staff updates covered public art programs, a pop-up retail store, and a proposed Small Business Relief Grant program.

• Approved September 12, 2023 draft meeting minutes (7-0-1)
• Discussed parking meter rate increase to $1.75/hour, pending Select Board action
• Discussed associate membership proposal, no vote, further feedback agreed
• Noted Transportation Board voted to increase meter rates to $1.75/hour in September

Age Friendly Cities Committee

The Age-Friendly Cities Committee will review meeting minutes, discuss pedestrian safety and micromobility regulations, and preview November Town Meeting warrant articles. The committee will also plan next steps after Brookline's acceptance into the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities, and discuss potential guest speakers.

• Discussion of micromobility regulations for pedestrian safety
• Preview of November Town Meeting Warrant Articles
• Brookline accepted into AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities
• Potential guest speakers include Brian Kane (Transportation Board), Patty Sullivan (Dementia-Friendly MA), and Jen Paster (Police Chief)
• Subcommittee reports on transportation, housing, health, library, and recreation

The Age Friendly Cities Committee approved the minutes of its July 11, 2023 meeting (10-0-0) and designated Matt Weiss as note taker. The committee confirmed that Brookline has completed the AARP application process and is now an AARP age-friendly community, with plans for a press release. Members also discussed potential guest speakers and subcommittee reports, with no other substantive decisions recorded.

• Approved minutes of July 11, 2023 meeting (10-0-0)
• Designated Matt Weiss as note taker
• Confirmed Brookline is now an AARP age-friendly community
• Planned press release to Brookline.News and others

Board of Assessors

The Brookline Board of Assessors is meeting to handle routine administrative business, including approving prior minutes, reviewing correspondence, and signing warrants and contracts. The board may take action on abatement applications, ATB case settlements, and statutory exemptions, though the agenda notes these items are conditional on their occurrence. No specific proposals or dollar amounts are listed.

• Review and approve minutes of prior meeting
• Review and sign contracts for services, if any
• Review and take action on abatement applications, if any
• Review and take action on statutory exemptions, if any
• Review proposed changes in assessment/valuation standards, if any

The Board of Assessors voted to recommend amendments to the Senior Citizen Property Tax Work-Off Program, increasing allowed hours from 100 to 125 and maximum earnings from $1,500 to $1,875. They also discussed rent stabilization's potential tax impacts and the FY2024 revaluation status. The board approved the minutes of the September 12 meeting.

• Approved minutes of September 12, 2023 meeting
• Voted to recommend Senior Citizen Property Tax Work-Off Program changes (100 to 125 hours, $1,500 to $1,875)

Building Commission

The Brookline Building Commission is meeting to approve minutes and receive updates on several major municipal construction projects, including the Pierce School, Driscoll School, and the Brookline High School expansion. The agenda also includes general building department project status updates and old/new business. This is a working session focused on project updates rather than formal votes.

• Pierce School Project update
• Driscoll School Project update
• BHS Expansion Update
• Building Department Projects Status Updates

The Building Commission approved moving forward with the design for the Pierce School Early Release Package but deferred the final decision on starting construction until cost estimates are complete. They also approved $785,328.52 in September invoices for Pierce and $3.8 million in invoices for the Driscoll School project. Additionally, the Commission approved change orders and amendments for both school projects and monthly invoices for the High School expansion.

• Approved September 12, 2023 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Approved Pierce School Consigli Amendment #3 for $29,842.54 (3-0)
• Approved Pierce School September invoices totaling $785,328.52 (3-0)
• Approved Pierce School Owner’s Contingency Budget Revision (3-0)
• Approved Pierce School Early Release Package design; deferred construction start decision (3-0)
• Approved Driscoll School Gilbane Change Order #32 for $32,075 (3-0)
• Approved Driscoll School JLA Contract Amendment #25 for $3,520 (3-0)
• Approved Driscoll School September invoices totaling $3,798,984.47 (3-0)

Park & Recreation Commission

The Brookline Park and Recreation Commission will discuss safety concerns at the Brookline Avenue Playground and may vote on the matter. They will also review Community Preservation Act project submissions, appoint commissioners to working groups, and receive updates on park construction and recreation programs.

• Discussion and possible vote on Brookline Avenue Playground equipment safety
• Park construction project updates
• Review of Community Preservation Act project submissions by Parks and Open Space Division
• Appointment of 3 commissioners to update roles and responsibilities
• Appointment of 2 commissioners to Pierce School Design Review Committee

The Park and Recreation Commission voted unanimously to remove the upright cylinder that makes noise from the Brookline Avenue Playground and patch the rubber area, following safety concerns raised by staff and community members. The Commission also approved minutes from three prior meetings, appointed members to subcommittees, and discussed Community Preservation Act project proposals and park construction updates.

• Approved removal of upright cylinder from Brookline Avenue Playground and patching of rubber area (5-0)
• Approved July 11, 2023 meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Approved August 29, 2023 meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Approved September 13, 2023 meeting minutes (all in favor, John Pan abstained)
• Appointed Antonia Bellalta, Lauren Bernard, and Clara Batchelor to subcommittee on Commissioner Roles and Responsibilities
• Appointed Antonia Bellalta and Jim Carroll to Pierce School Design Review Committee

Commission for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Community Relations

The Immigrant Advancement Committee of Brookline's Commission for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Community Relations is meeting to vote on minutes, receive updates, review edits to the Welcome Booklet text, and discuss a virtual roundtable and focus groups. The agenda is mostly procedural and planning-focused, with no major decisions or contracts listed.

• Vote on meeting minutes
• Review of Welcome Booklet text edits and additions
• Discussion of virtual roundtable and focus groups
• Wrap up, timeline, and action steps

The commission approved the previous meeting minutes and decided to cancel a planned roundtable due to low sign-ups. Members agreed to use a Google form and individual outreach to gather feedback on a welcome booklet. A focus group for AAPI immigrants is scheduled for November 5.

• Approved previous meeting minutes
• Cancelled the service provider roundtable
• Approved use of Google form for community organization feedback
• Approved individual outreach to organizations for booklet feedback
• Scheduled BAAFN focus group for Nov 5

Preservation Commission

The Brookline Preservation Commission is holding a remote public hearing on October 10, 2023, to consider demolition requests, certificates of appropriateness for local historic districts, and other preservation business. The agenda includes two demolition hearings, two LHD applications, and discussions on a building code exemption and CPA applications.

• 16 Hart Street: request to lift stay of partial demolition (Michael & Claire Wolfe)
• 12 Thayer Street: partial demolition of a carriage house (Robert L. Allen Jr.)
• 11 Abbottsford Road: condenser unit installation in Graffam Mckay LHD (Susan F. Martin)
• 138 High Street: retroactive certificate for metal fence and stone retaining wall in Pill Hill LHD (Masonworks)
• 35 Davis Ave: discussion and significance finding for building code exemption

The Commission approved a partial demolition for a home addition at 16 Hart Street and upheld a significance determination for a carriage house at 12 Thayer Street. A retroactive permit for a fence and wall at 138 High Street was denied, while a heat pump installation at 11 Abbottsford Road was approved with conditions.

• Approved partial demolition for home addition at 16 Hart Street (6-0)
• Upheld staff determination of significance for carriage house at 12 Thayer Street (6-0)
• Approved exterior heat pump and piping at 11 Abbottsford Road contingent on contractor review (5-1)
• Denied retroactive approval for fence and retaining wall at 138 High Street (6-0)
• Approved letter to Building Commissioner for HERS rating exemption at 35 Davis Avenue (5-1)
• Approved minutes from 9.12.23 meeting as amended (5-0, 1 abstain)

Advisory Committee

The Brookline Advisory Committee will hold a public hearing and vote on three warrant articles: a senior discount program for water and sewer rates, an amendment to the Senior Tax work-off program, and a proposal to rename the Heath School. The committee will also receive a report from its Schools Subcommittee. Public comment is welcome during the hearing portion.

• Warrant Article 7: Senior discount program for water and sewer rates
• Warrant Article 8: Amend the Senior Tax work-off program
• Warrant Article 13: Rename the Heath School
• Public comment at 7:00 pm
• Hybrid meeting in Room 103, Town Hall and via Zoom

The Advisory Committee voted 22-0-1 to recommend favorable action on Warrant Article 8, which would expand the Senior Tax Work-Off Program to allow seniors to work 125 hours at $15/hour for up to $1,500 in tax relief. It also voted 15-7 to refer Warrant Article 7, which would authorize a senior water/sewer discount program, back to the Select Board for further action, after amending it to specify 'income eligible' residents aged 65 and over. The committee made no recommendation on Warrant Article 13 to rename the Heath School, voting 15-4-1 to take no position.

• Recommended favorable action on WA 8 (Senior Tax Work-Off Program expansion) (22-0-1)
• Amended WA 7 to add 'income eligible' before 'residents aged 65 and over' (18-0-4)
• Referred WA 7 (water/sewer senior discount) back to Select Board (15-7)
• Made no recommendation on WA 13 (rename Heath School) (15-4-1)

Indigenous Peoples Celebration Committee

The Indigenous People's Celebration Committee is meeting to approve minutes from September 22 and finalize plans for Indigenous Peoples Day 2023, including confirmed speakers, vendors, setup, and day-of logistics. They will also discuss other programming for November and any new business or updates.

• Approval of minutes from 9/22/23
• Final confirmed speakers and vendors for IPD 2023
• Discussion of setup and layout for the event
• Updates on ASL interpretation, recipe cards, and event circulation
• Discussion of November programming

The committee approved the September 22 meeting minutes and finalized logistics for Indigenous Peoples Day 2023, including confirmed speakers, vendors, and food arrangements. They discussed potential November programming, including a possible co-hosted event with the library and a movie talk-back for 'Killers of the Flower Moon' at Coolidge Corner Theatre, with further discussion deferred to the next meeting.

• Approved minutes from 9/22/23
• Confirmed Dr. Rev. Grubbs as remote speaker and Kailey for Land Acknowledgement
• Confirmed Chilacates as food vendor (200 burritos, 150 churros) after Stoked could not provide W9
• Arranged for committee members to bring drinks and water jugs for the event
• Discussed co-hosting November event with library; no decision made
• Discussed potential partnership with Coolidge Corner Theatre for 'Killers of the Flower Moon'; tabled for next meeting

Planning Board

The Brookline Planning Board is holding a virtual meeting with public comment and tentative Zoning Board of Appeals hearings. Two cases are on the agenda: a detached garage and addition at 32 Manchester Road, and a 10-unit multi-family building with below-grade parking at 80 Vernon Street. A third case, converting 20 Kent Street from office to veterinary clinic, has been withdrawn.

• 32 Manchester Road: detached garage, small rear addition, and deck (Precinct 8)
• 80 Vernon Street: multi-family structure with 10 units and below-grade parking (Precinct 10)
• 20 Kent Street: office-to-veterinary-clinic conversion — WITHDRAWN
• Public comment on matters not on the agenda

The Brookline Planning Board recommended approval of a detached garage, rear addition, and deck at 32 Manchester Road, with conditions, in a 3-1 vote. The board also discussed a proposed 10-unit multi-family building at 80 Vernon Street but took no vote, asking the applicant to revise plans to address setbacks and other concerns.

• Recommended approval of site plan and architectural plans for 32 Manchester Road (3-1)
• Tabled action on 80 Vernon Street multi-family project pending plan revisions

Zero Emissions Advisory Board

The Zero Emissions Advisory Board will meet to receive a DPW update on protected bike lanes and public EV chargers, take public comment, and review the rollout of home electrification guides and the Electrify Brookline campaign.

• DPW update on protected bike lanes and public EV chargers
• Public comment period
• Review of published How-To home electrification guides
• Rollout of Electrify Brookline campaign

The board received an update on the expansion of town-owned EV chargers from 5 to approximately 35 stations. Representatives presented the 'Electrify Brookline' campaign, which provides residents with how-to guides for home electrification via the town website. No formal votes were taken during the meeting.

Advisory Committee

The Public Safety Subcommittee of Brookline's Advisory Committee is holding a public hearing to discuss, deliberate, and possibly vote on Warrant Article 17, a resolution regarding fluorinated hydrocarbons, commonly known as PFAS. The public is invited to attend and comment.

• Public hearing on Warrant Article 17: Resolution regarding PFAS
• Possible vote by subcommittee members on the resolution
• Public comments accepted in person or in writing

The Public Safety Subcommittee held a public hearing on Warrant Article 17, a resolution urging the Town to avoid purchasing or using products containing PFAS. No recommendation was voted because the subcommittee lacked a quorum. The subcommittee proposed a minor wording change, changing 'citizens' to 'residents' in the first Whereas clause, which the Moderator's Committee supported.

• No recommendation voted due to lack of quorum
• Proposed changing 'citizens' to 'residents' in first Whereas clause (supported by Moderator's Committee)

Advisory Committee

The Brookline Advisory Committee will discuss and possibly vote on two warrant articles: one to ban the sale of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians in pet shops, and another to prohibit certain wild animals in traveling acts. The committee will also hear a presentation on departmental budget review preparation.

• Warrant Article 14: ban sale of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians in pet shops
• Warrant Article 15: prohibit elephants, monkeys, zebras in traveling animal acts
• Presentation on departmental budget review preparation

The Brookline Advisory Committee voted to refer Warrant Article 14 (banning pet shop sales of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians) and Warrant Article 15 (banning certain wild animals in traveling acts) to an Ad Hoc Subcommittee for revision. The committee also discussed a new budget review process pilot. No final action was taken on either article.

• Referred WA 14 (pet shop animal sales ban) to Ad Hoc Subcommittee (18-0-2)
• Referred WA 15 (traveling animal acts ban) to Ad Hoc Subcommittee (9-7-3)
• Discussed budget review pilot, no vote taken

Trustees of Walnut Hills Cemetery

The Walnut Hills Cemetery Trustees are meeting outside to sign deeds and conduct a site walk to evaluate potential locations for upright-marker lots. The meeting is scheduled for 8:30-9:15 AM and will be cancelled if weather is poor.

• Signing of deeds
• Site walk to Section 21 (layout revision at east end)
• Site walk to Library Edge (new development option)
• Site walk to Allandale Edge (new development option)

The Trustees of Walnut Hills Cemetery held a site visit on October 4, 2023, to inspect three locations for potential upright-marker lots: Section 21, Library Edge, and Allandale Edge. They signed deeds but made no formal decisions, as the meeting was procedural and exploratory.

• Signed deeds (no vote recorded)
• Walked Section 21 for layout revision at east end
• Walked Library Edge as new development option
• Walked Allandale Edge as new development option

Housing Advisory Board

The Brookline Housing Advisory Board is meeting remotely to discuss housing-related topics, including a presentation from the Town Administrator, an update from Brookline CDC, and a discussion of a Community Preservation Act application. The board will also consider supplemental payments, required procedures for cash payments in lieu of onsite affordable units, and receive updates on ongoing projects and policies.

• Discussion of CPA (Community Preservation Act) application
• Supplemental payments discussion
• Required procedures for cash payments in lieu of onsite affordable units
• Updates on AHOD, Nexus, MBTA Communities Act, 32 Marion St, 108 Center, resale properties, fiscal resources, and HPP

The Housing Advisory Board voted to authorize filing the Community Preservation Act (CPA) eligibility application by October 16, 2023, and approved supplemental cash payment guidelines for affordable units. The board also discussed BCDC funding and deferred a decision to the next meeting.

• Authorized filing CPA eligibility application by Oct 16 (unanimous)
• Approved supplemental cash payment guidelines (8-0, Bernard abstained)
• Approved September 2023 meeting minutes (7-0-1, Bernard abstained)
• Deferred BCDC funding decision to next meeting

Brookline Commission for the Arts

The Brookline Commission for the Arts is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes, a treasurer's report, and updates on public art and new members. They will also discuss grants for 2023/24 and a possible 'frolic' item. The agenda is largely procedural with no major decisions listed.

• Approval of September 13, 2023 meeting minutes
• Treasurer's report
• Discussion of BAMC public art
• Grants 2023/24 discussion
• Possible frolic item

Brookline Commission for Women

The Brookline Commission for Women is meeting to handle routine administrative items, hear public comment, and discuss several topics including a refugee supply drive, a potential co-sponsored exhibit on Frances Perkins, and recent sex education advances by Governor Healey's office. The agenda is largely discussion-oriented with no major decisions or contracts listed.

• Vote to approve September 2023 meeting minutes
• Public comment period for non-agenda items
• Discussion of refugee supply drive
• Tentative discussion of co-sponsoring Frances Perkins Exhibit with League of Women Voters
• Discussion of sex education advances by Governor Healey's office

The Commission decided to write a letter pushing for a bill on menstrual products for women, linking it to the Healthy Youth Act. Members discussed refugee housing needs and the state's sex education curriculum. The Commission will not collaborate on the Francis Perkins library exhibit.

• Approved letter regarding IAM Bill/An Act for Healthy Youth (9-0)
• Decided against collaboration on Francis Perkins library exhibit

Bicycle Advisory Committee

The Brookline Bicycle Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss and potentially act on its charter, draft micromobility regulations, and a September presentation at BHS. The agenda also includes a presentation on bike routes, a discussion on advocacy, and updates on bicycle parking and web documents. All times are approximate and items may be called out of order.

• Discussion and action on BAC charter
• Discussion and action on draft micromobility regulations
• Presentation on bike routes from South Brookline to BHS
• Update on bicycle parking in commercial areas
• September bike counts recap

Housing Authority

The Brookline Housing Authority Board of Commissioners is meeting to vote on two construction-related items: a $692,145.53 change order for drywall work at 50 Pleasant Street and a $86,000 contract for soil management services at 32 Marion Street. The board will also hear reports and public comment, with no votes on those items.

• Vote on Change Order #104 for $692,145.53 to Daniel O'Connell's Sons for drywall work in Phases 2-4 at 50 Pleasant Street, funded by project contingency
• Vote to award $86,000 contract to McPhail Associates, LLC for geo-environmental services and soil management plan at 32 Marion Street

Select Board

The Brookline Select Board will hold a public hearing and vote on four warrant articles for the November 14 Special Town Meeting, including a zoning amendment for Mason Terrace, renaming Heath School, and animal-related bans. The board will also consider several contracts, including a $1.55 million design contract for renovations to Fire Stations 4 and 1, a $189,914 change order for the Driscoll School project, and a $2,200 amendment for Tappan Street redesign. Additionally, the board will vote on police officer appointments and hear an update on the Pierce School Building Project.

• Contract with Cambridge Seven Associates for Fire Stations 4 and 1 renovations: $1,552,120
• Change Order #31 for Driscoll School Project with Gilbane Building Company: $189,914
• Contract Amendment #33 with William Rawn Architects for Tappan Street redesign: $2,200
• Public hearing on warrant articles: Mason Terrace zoning, Heath School rename, pet store animal ban, traveling animals, budget amendment
• Appointment of four police officers (three probationary, one lateral transfer)

The Brookline Select Board approved meeting minutes, a payroll coordinator hire, project change orders and contracts including fire station renovations, and several police officer appointments. The board also interviewed board candidates, held public hearings on multiple upcoming Special Town Meeting warrant articles, and reappointed members to the Solid Waste Advisory Committee. No votes were taken on the warrant articles during this session.

• Approved September 26, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved authorization to hire Payroll Coordinator in Finance Department (4-0)
• Approved Change Order #31 with Gilbane Building Company for Driscoll School Project for $189,914 (4-0)
• Approved Contract Amendment #33 with William Rawn Architects for Tappan Street Reconstruction for $2,200 (4-0)
• Approved contract with Cambridge Seven Associations for Fire Stations 4 and 1 renovations for $1,552,120 (4-0)
• Approved probationary police officer appointments for Joseph Canavan, Ryan McCarthy, and Marc Constantin (4-0)
• Approved lateral transfer of police officer Jonathan Dillon from Dedham Police Department (4-0)
• Reappointed Clint Richmond, Chris Dempsey, and Susan Rittling and appointed Geri Lambert to Solid Waste Advisory Committee (5-0)

Solid Waste Advisory Committee

The Brookline Solid Waste Advisory Committee is meeting virtually to discuss waste management topics. The agenda includes a presentation on Recirclable, an overview of the DPW's event waste management process, and reports on amnesty week and school composting. Public comment is also scheduled.

• Presentation on Recirclable by Margie Bell
• Overview of DPW's Event Waste Management Process by Katie Weatherseed
• Amnesty Week Report
• School Composting Update
• Approval of September 5, 2023 minutes

The Solid Waste Advisory Committee approved the September 5, 2023 minutes unanimously. Members heard a presentation on Recirclable.com's reusable container program and an overview of DPW's event waste management process. No substantive policy decisions were made; a proposal to endorse a PFAS purchasing policy was deferred to a future hearing.

• Approved September 5, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Deferred vote on Warrant Article 17 (PFAS purchasing policy) to next meeting

Advisory Committee

The Brookline Advisory Committee is holding a public hearing and meeting to discuss and possibly vote on several warrant articles for Town Meeting. These include paying unpaid bills, renaming the Community Preservation Committee, and creating a Payroll Division in the Finance Department. Public comment is welcome during the hearing portion.

• Vote on Warrant Article 1: Unpaid Bills
• Vote on Warrant Article 11: Amend Article 3.25 to add 'Act' to Community Preservation Committee name
• Vote on Warrant Article 9: Amend General By-Laws to create Payroll Division in Finance Department
• Public comment period at 7:00 pm
• Report from Administration and Finance Subcommittee

The Advisory Committee voted on three warrant articles for the October 2023 Town Meeting. It recommended no action on Warrant Article 1 (unpaid bills) because there were none. It recommended favorable action on Warrant Article 11 to rename the Community Preservation Committee to include 'Act'. It also recommended favorable action on an amended Warrant Article 9 to create a Payroll Division in the Finance Department.

• Recommended no action on Warrant Article 1 (unpaid bills) (0-20-0)
• Recommended favorable action on Warrant Article 11 to rename Community Preservation Committee to Community Preservation Act Committee (16-3-1)
• Approved amendment to Warrant Article 9 substituting new language (19-0-1)
• Recommended favorable action on amended Warrant Article 9 to create Payroll Division (19-0-1)

Economic Development Advisory Board

The Economic Development Advisory Board is holding a continued public hearing on Fall 2023 Special Town Meeting Warrant Article 1, the MBTA Communities Act consensus article. The board will determine which portions of the Harvard Street Main Street districts should be subject to a ground-floor commercial mandate.

• Continued public hearing on STM4 Warrant Article 1 (MBTA Communities Act)
• Decision on ground-floor commercial mandate in Harvard Street Main Street districts

The Board continued its public hearing on the MBTA Communities Act warrant article and agreed to recommend a ground-floor commercial mandate for all Harvard Main Street zoning district properties, except for specific listed exemptions including the H-MSN district, certain multifamily blocks, and several individual properties. The Board also agreed to recommend removing four Stop and Shop-adjacent properties from the Harvard Main Street district entirely. The hearing was continued to the Board's October 16, 2023 meeting.

• Recommended ground-floor commercial mandate for all Harvard Main Street district properties except listed exemptions
• Exempted all H-MSN district properties from the mandate
• Exempted 524-526 Harvard St and 5-11 Verndale St from the mandate
• Exempted east side of Harvard St from Stedman St to Naples Rd from the mandate
• Exempted 171-181 Harvard St and 3 Alton Pl from the mandate
• Exempted building on west side of Harvard St between Vernon St and Foster St from the mandate
• Exempted 10 Vernon St/164 Harvard St and 152-158 Harvard St from the mandate
• Recommended removing 149, 137, 143 Harvard St and 20 Harvard Ct from the district

Advisory Committee

The Capital Subcommittee of the Brookline Advisory Committee will hold a public hearing to review, discuss, and possibly vote on Warrant Article 16, a Home Rule Petition to implement rent stabilization and tenant eviction protections. The meeting is open to the public, with opportunities for comment.

• Warrant Article 16: Home Rule Petition for rent stabilization and tenant eviction protections
• Public hearing with opportunity for public comment
• Meeting held via Zoom on October 2, 2023 at 6:00 PM

Advisory Committee

The Public Safety Subcommittee of Brookline's Advisory Committee is holding a public hearing to discuss and possibly vote on two proposed bylaw amendments (Articles 14 and 15) for the Special Town Meeting. Article 14 would ban the sale of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians in pet shops. Article 15 would prohibit the use of certain wild animals, such as elephants, monkeys, and zebras, in traveling animal acts like circuses and carnivals.

• Article 14: Amend General By-Laws to ban pet shop sales of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians
• Article 15: Amend General By-Laws to prohibit wild animals (elephants, monkeys, zebras) in traveling animal acts
• Public hearing with opportunity for public comment and written comments accepted until noon the day before

The Public Safety Subcommittee voted 1-2-1 to recommend NO ACTION on Article 14, which would ban pet stores from selling animals in Brookline. Members supported the goal but found the ban overly broad and ineffective since no pet stores exist in town. The subcommittee also voted 3-1-0 to recommend FAVORABLE ACTION on Article 15, which would ban traveling animal acts in Brookline.

• Article 14 (Humane Pet Shops) recommended NO ACTION (1-2-1)
• Article 15 (Traveling Animal Acts) recommended FAVORABLE ACTION (3-1-0)

Advisory Committee

The Land Use, Zoning and Sustainability Subcommittee of the Brookline Advisory Committee will hold a public hearing and meeting to review, discuss, and possibly vote on Warrant Article 6, a zoning amendment for Mason Terrace (Fischer TMM 11, et al.). The public can comment during the hearing or submit written comments by noon the day before.

• Public hearing and meeting on Warrant Article 6, a zoning amendment for Mason Terrace (Fischer TMM 11, et al.)
• Possible vote on Warrant Article 6 during the public meeting
• Public comments accepted during the hearing or in writing by noon the day prior

Police Commissioners Advisory Committee

The Brookline Police Commissioners Advisory Committee is meeting to take a final vote on proposed changes to the policy manual regarding responding to individuals with mental illness, following discussion at the September 11 meeting. The committee will also review civilian feedback survey responses, discuss the legal effect and criteria for issuing 'Letters of Good Conduct,' and hear working group reports on topics including stop-and-frisk, body cameras, and juvenile operations. Public comment is limited to two minutes per speaker.

• Final vote on policy manual changes for responding to individuals with mental illness
• Report on Civilian Feedback Survey responses
• Discussion of 'Letter of Good Conduct' legal effect and criteria
• Working group reports on equipment violation policy, juvenile operations, stop-and-frisk, body cameras (Warrant Article 23), and data
• Public hearing scheduled for October 30 on mid-year report

The Police Commissioners Advisory Committee approved several amendments to the proposed policy manual regarding police responses to individuals with mental health conditions. The committee updated terminology to replace "illness" with "conditions" and adjusted language regarding specialized officer roles and specific mental health situations. Additionally, the committee reviewed reports on civilian feedback and equipment violation stops.

• Approved minutes from October 2, 2023 meeting (6-0-1)
• Denied original Section B(4) language (2-5)
• Approved Section B(4) with 'specialized roles' substitution (7-0)
• Approved changing 'illness' to 'conditions' in subparagraph (i) (7-0)
• Approved amended language for policy paragraph two (5-2)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Advisory Committee

The Ad-hoc Capital Subcommittee of the Advisory Committee discussed Warrant Article 16 (WA16), which proposes a Home Rule Petition for rent stabilization and tenant eviction protection. After hearing presentations, public comment, and committee discussion regarding the proposed rent caps, exemptions, implementation costs, and potential impacts, the subcommittee voted to postpone a vote and continue the meeting to October 11, 2023.

• Postponed a vote on WA16 and continued the meeting to October 11, 2023 at 6:30 PM by ZOOM (5-0)

School Committee

The Brookline School Committee will hold a regular meeting with presentations and discussions on the K-8 World Language Program review, FY2025 budget development calendar, and the Superintendent's goals and priorities. The committee will also consider votes on a union agreement for Unified Sports coaching stipends and FY2024 food service fees, along with consent agenda items including contract amendments and change orders.

• Contract Amendment No. 33 with William Rawn Architects for Brookline High School project ($2,200)
• Change Order No. 31 with Gilbane Building Company for Driscoll School project ($189,914)
• Possible vote on Memorandum of Agreement with Brookline Educators Union for Unified Sports coaching stipends
• Discussion and possible vote on FY 2024 Food Service Fees
• Student trips to Japan, Civil Rights trip to Tennessee/Mississippi/Alabama/Georgia, and Queer Student Program trip to Richmond, NH

The Brookline School Committee voted unanimously to waive all non-reimbursable food charges in FY24 for students eligible for free/reduced lunch, continuing a policy from FY23. The committee also approved a consent agenda including contract amendments for the Brookline High School and Driscoll School projects, and a Memorandum of Agreement with the Brookline Educators Union for Unified Sports coaching stipends. Additionally, the committee voted to hold public hearings on two 2023 Special Town Meeting warrant articles, including renaming the Heath School to the Roland Hayes School.

• Approved consent agenda including $2,200 contract amendment for BHS architects and $189,914 change order for Driscoll School (5-0-1)
• Approved FY24 food service fee waiver for free/reduced lunch students (6-0)
• Approved Memorandum of Agreement with Brookline Educators Union for Unified Sports coaching stipends (6-0)
• Voted to hold public hearings on Special Town Meeting Articles 10 and 13 (6-0)
• Discussed K-8 World Language Program review findings and recommendations; task force to be launched
• Reviewed FY25 budget development calendar; will be docketed for second reading and vote on October 26

Pierce School Building Committee

The Pierce School Building Committee is meeting to discuss the design update for the Pierce School project, along with upcoming meetings, old and new business, and public comment. The committee will review progress and next steps for the building project.

• Design update for Pierce School
• Discussion of upcoming meetings
• Old business review
• New business items
• Public comment period

The committee received design updates on classroom layouts, the gymnasium, and the exterior green ramp. No formal votes or substantive decisions were recorded during the meeting.

Zoning By-Law Committee

The Zoning By-Law Committee is meeting to discuss a recommendation to the Select Board about continuing the committee itself. The agenda contains only this discussion item and standard meeting logistics, with no specific zoning proposals or public hearings listed.

• Discussion of recommendation to Select Board regarding continuation of Zoning By-Law Committee

Community Preservation Act Committee

The Community Preservation Act Committee is holding a virtual information session to guide applicants through the first round of CPA funding. A consultant will review project eligibility and answer questions to help prepare applications.

• Information session for CPA funding applications
• Project eligibility review and open Q&A
• Led by consultant JM Goldson
• First round of CPA funding in Brookline

Advisory Committee

The Ad Hoc Subcommittee of the Advisory Committee will hold a hybrid public hearing and meeting to review, discuss, and possibly vote on WA 18, a resolution to create a Moderator's Form of Government Committee. The public may comment during the hearing portion, and written comments are accepted until noon the day before. The subcommittee may debate the article and vote on a recommendation.

• WA 18: Resolution on creating a Moderator's Form of Government Committee (Margolis)
• Public hearing and meeting on September 28, 2023, 7:00-9:00 PM in Room 103, Brookline Town Hall and via Zoom
• Public comments accepted during hearing; written comments due by noon on September 27

The WA18 Ad Hoc Subcommittee voted 6-0-0 to recommend favorable action on Warrant Article 18 as amended. The article asks the Moderator to appoint a committee to study forms of municipal government in Massachusetts as they relate to Brookline, with findings reported to Town Meeting and all residents by August 31, 2024. The subcommittee amended the article to require objective review and public availability of findings.

• Recommended favorable action on Warrant Article 18 as amended (6-0-0)
• Amended article to require objective evaluation of government forms
• Amended article to require findings be made available to all Town residents

Tree Protection Committee

The Tree Protection Committee is holding a public hearing on draft rules and regulations for the Tree Preservation Bylaw, followed by a possible vote to approve them. The meeting also includes an overview of the bylaw and an update on the Urban Forest Climate Resiliency Master Plan implementation.

• Public hearing on draft rules and regulations for Tree Preservation Bylaw
• Possible vote to approve Tree Preservation Bylaw Rules and Regulations
• Overview of Tree Preservation Bylaw
• Update on Urban Forest Climate Resiliency Master Plan implementation

Planning Board

The Brookline Planning Board will hold a virtual meeting on September 27, 2023, at 8:30 AM. The agenda includes a public comment period, an update on Special Town Meetings related to MBTA Communities Act zoning warrant articles, and five sign/facade review cases. The board will review proposed sign changes and a building entrance rework for ADA accessibility.

• Update on Special Town Meetings relevant to MBTA Communities Act zoning warrant articles
• 77 Harvard Street: Replace existing wall and blade signs for Bambat Advanced Thai Massage
• 367 Harvard Street: Replace freestanding sign for Coolidge Corner Dental
• 135 Cypress Street: Install wall, blade, and window signs for En Salon
• 730 Commonwealth Avenue: Rework building entrance for ADA accessibility and install two illuminated wall signs for IDG Innovation Center (BU)

The Brookline Planning Board approved four sign and façade applications at its September 27, 2023 meeting. All approvals were subject to final plan review by the Director or Assistant Director for Regulatory Planning. One application, for 77 Harvard Street, was approved with conditions and a 4-1 vote, with Mark Zarrillo dissenting. The board also received an informational update on Special Town Meeting warrant articles related to MBTA Communities Act zoning.

• Approved sign plans for 77 Harvard Street (Bambat Advanced Thai Massage) with conditions (4-1, Zarrillo nay)
• Approved sign plans for 367 Harvard Street (Coolidge Corner Dental) with conditions (unanimous)
• Approved sign plans for 135 Cypress Street (En Salon) with conditions (unanimous)
• Approved sign plans for 1624 Beacon Street (Chase ATM) with conditions (unanimous)
• Approved sign and façade plan for 730 Commonwealth Avenue (IDG Innovation Center) with conditions (unanimous)

Transportation Board

The Brookline Transportation Board will discuss and potentially vote on several transportation items, including electric vehicle charging rates with an overstay fee, parking meter rates, and a one-way pilot with a contraflow bike lane on Kennard Road. The board will also consider reappointing members to the Bicycle Advisory Committee, relicensing FlixBus, and delegating authority to staff for various traffic requests.

• Discussion and action on EV charging rates and overstay fee
• Discussion and possible action on parking meter rates
• Discussion and action on one-way pilot with contraflow bike lane on Kennard Road for Safe Routes to School
• Discussion and action on annual relicensing for FlixBus
• Discussion and action on request to create accessible parking tow away zone on Short Street north of Beacon Street

The Board approved increases to parking meter rates and established new fees for electric vehicle charging and overstays. Other actions included approving a one-way traffic pilot on Kennard Road and renewing a short-term license for Flixbus.

• Increased parking meter rates to $1.75/hour, except where already $2.00/hour (5-0, 1 abstain)
• Implemented $0.40/KWh EV charging fee and $1.25 per 15-minute overstay fee after 20 minutes (6-0)
• Approved one-way pilot with contraflow bike lane on Kennard Road (6-0)
• Renewed Flixbus Jitney License through December 31, 2023 (6-0)
• Created 25-foot curbside accessible parking space on Short Street near Beacon Street (6-0)
• Rescinded Beaver Country Day School on-street teacher/staff permit parking program (6-0)
• Reappointed Mitch Heineman and Emily Jacobsen to Bicycle Advisory Committee (6-0)
• Approved July 2023 meeting minutes (6-0)

Economic Development Advisory Board

The Economic Development Advisory Board will hold a public hearing on two Fall 2023 Special Town Meeting warrant articles related to the MBTA Communities Act, with a presentation from Planning Department staff, public comments, and a possible vote. The board will also begin preliminary discussion on guidelines for incentivizing ground floor commercial space referenced in the articles.

• Public hearing on STM1 Warrant Article 3: MBTA Communities Act – Consensus Article
• Public hearing on STM4 Warrant Article 1: MBTA Communities Act – Consensus Article
• Presentation on warrant articles from Planning Department staff
• Possible board vote on warrant articles
• Preliminary discussion on guidelines for incentivizing ground floor commercial space

Advisory Committee

The Schools Subcommittee of the Brookline Advisory Committee will hold a public hearing and meeting to review, discuss, and possibly vote on Article 13, which proposes renaming the Heath School. The public may comment during the hearing portion; written comments are also accepted. The subcommittee may debate the article and vote on a recommendation.

• Public hearing and vote on WA 13: Rename the Heath School
• Virtual meeting via Zoom with phone dial-in
• Public comments accepted during hearing; written comments due by noon the day before
• Subcommittee Chair: Cliff Brown

The Schools Subcommittee of the Brookline Advisory Committee held a public hearing on Warrant Article 13, which proposes renaming the Heath School to the Roland Hayes School. The subcommittee voted 1-0 with 3 abstentions to recommend favorable action on the article. The recommendation will be forwarded to the full Advisory Committee and Town Meeting for consideration.

• Recommended favorable action on Warrant Article 13 to rename Heath School to Roland Hayes School (1-0-3)