Brookline public meetings in 2024

Brookline Commission for the Arts

The Brookline Commission for the Arts is meeting to review and approve minutes and conduct the final review and approval of 2025 Local Cultural Council (LCC) grants. The meeting is primarily a grant decision session, with no other substantive agenda items listed.

• Final review and approval of 2025 LCC grants
• Review and approval of meeting minutes

Community Preservation Act Committee

The Community Preservation Act Committee is holding a working group meeting to review two CPA grant applications: the Golf Course Composting Restroom and the Chemical Firehouse Restoration. No public comment will be taken and no votes will be cast at this meeting.

• Review of Golf Course Composting Restroom application
• Review of Chemical Firehouse Restoration application

The Community Preservation Act Committee working group reviewed two applications: the Historic Chemical Firehouse Restoration and the Putterham Woods Composting Restroom. No formal votes were taken; the firehouse budget will be revised to remove a $5,000 sign line item and clarify elevator design eligibility, while concerns were raised about the restroom's limited public access and CPA fund priorities.

• Removed $5,000 sign line item from firehouse restoration budget
• Requested revised firehouse budget reflecting in-kind match for project management and architect fees
• Requested additional financial information for firehouse restoration
• Discussed eligibility concerns for elevator design at firehouse
• Raised concerns about composting restroom's limited public access and CPA fund priorities

Brookline Commission for the Arts

The Brookline Commission for the Arts is holding an extraordinary meeting to discuss and select grant applicants for ARPA funding 2024. The agenda includes two items: discussion of applicants and selection of recipients.

• Discussion of grant applicants for ARPA funding 2024
• Selection of grant applicants for ARPA funding 2024

MLK Celebration Committee

The Brookline MLK Celebration Committee is meeting remotely to approve minutes from its December 12 meeting and discuss updates and action items for MLK Day 2025. The agenda also includes time for other or new business and scheduling the next meeting.

• Approve minutes from 12/12/24
• Updates and action items for MLK Day 2025

The committee approved the December 12 minutes and advanced planning for MLK Day 2025, confirming Martin Summers as a panelist and noting Kate Leslie's interest. They discussed panel questions, ASL interpretation, poster distribution, and a February 9 program with Ken Liss. No final decisions were made on the event program details.

• Approved minutes from 12/12/24 (3-0)
• Confirmed Martin Summers as panelist for MLK Day 2025
• Noted Kate Leslie's interest as panelist; Caitlin to follow up
• Confirmed ASL interpreter; Rob to verify video captioning
• Red Sun Press printed 250 posters; Rob distributing
• Scheduled Ken Liss program for Feb 9, 2-3:30 PM in Hunneman Hall

Library Trustees

The Brookline Board of Library Trustees' Staff Appreciation Committee is meeting virtually to discuss the budget and timeline for a staff appreciation effort and to brainstorm appreciation ideas. This is a planning session with no votes or public hearings scheduled.

• Discuss budget and timeline for staff appreciation
• Brainstorm appreciation ideas

Planning Board

The Brookline Planning Board is holding an evening meeting to discuss matters related to Chapter 40A cases. The agenda includes public comment and tentative Zoning Board of Appeals hearings for three property proposals: adding dormers to a home on Fischer Avenue, a third-floor addition on Cameron Street, and converting a single-family home to a two-family dwelling on York Terrace.

• 4 Fischer Avenue – add three dormers to existing single-family home (hearing date 1/16, Precinct 14)
• 48 Cameron Street – construct third-floor infill addition to rear of two-family condo (hearing date 1/16, Precinct 4)
• 6 York Terrace – convert single-family to two-family dwelling (hearing date 1/16, Precinct 11)

The Brookline Planning Board voted unanimously to recommend approval for three zoning board of appeals cases: adding dormers at 4 Fischer Avenue, a third-floor infill addition at 48 Cameron Street, and converting a single-family home to a two-family dwelling at 6 York Terrace. Each recommendation includes conditions such as submitting final stamped plans and, for 6 York Terrace, a tree-protection plan if the amended by-law takes effect. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Recommended approval for dormers at 4 Fischer Avenue (unanimous)
• Recommended approval for third-floor addition at 48 Cameron Street (unanimous)
• Recommended approval for conversion to two-family at 6 York Terrace (unanimous)
• Attached conditions to each approval requiring final stamped plans and Board of Appeals decision recording

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Brookline Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a virtual public hearing on four cases: converting a bank at 1228 Boylston Street to a Blinds To Go retail store, converting a basement commercial unit at 1249 Beacon Street to residential, extending time for a parking area at 107 University Road, and constructing a new single-family home at 60 Lyman Road. Public testimony will be taken during the hearing.

• 1228 Boylston Street: Convert existing bank to Blinds To Go (modification to Case 2977-A)
• 1249 Beacon Street: Convert commercial basement to residential unit (continued from 12/5)
• 107 University Road: Extension of time to construct parking area for two spaces
• 60 Lyman Road: Construct new single-family dwelling

The Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously approved a special permit for Blinds To Go to convert the former Santander Bank at 1228 Boylston Street into a retail showroom. The Board also voted to modify a 1990 decision, removing a condition requiring 25 free overnight parking spaces and replacing it with a new condition encouraging the applicant to investigate demand and arrange up to 10 spaces for nearby residents. The Board also granted a special permit for a new single-family home at 60 Lyman Road, and approved a conversion at 1249 Beacon Street.

• Approved special permit for Blinds To Go at 1228 Boylston Street (unanimous)
• Modified 1990 ZBA Case No. 2977-A, removing 25-space overnight parking condition (unanimous)
• Approved special permit to convert basement unit to residential at 1249 Beacon Street (unanimous)
• Approved special permit for new single-family home at 60 Lyman Road (unanimous)
• Granted withdrawal of extension request for 107 University Road parking area

Commission for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Community Relations

The Brookline Commission for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Community Relations is meeting remotely to hear subcommittee updates and hold a discussion on the Student Resource Officer program, with representatives from the Police, Select Board, and School Committee participating. The agenda also includes public comment and a land acknowledgement. This is a discussion-focused meeting with no listed votes or decisions.

• Discussion on Student Resource Officer with Police, Select Board, and School Committee representatives
• Subcommittee updates from Immigration Advancement, School Committee, Police Liaison, and ODEICR
• Public comment period of 20 minutes
• Remote meeting via Zoom with registration required

Advisory Committee

The Brookline Advisory Committee will hear a presentation on the FY2026 financial forecast and preliminary Capital Improvements Plan, then consider entering executive session to discuss two pending lawsuits against the town. The committee may also authorize a transfer from the Liability/Catastrophe Fund to settle these cases.

• FY2026 Financial Forecast and preliminary Capital Improvements Plan presentation
• Executive session to discuss Bergeron et al. vs. Town of Brookline (FLSA lawsuit, U.S. District Court Dkt No. 1:23-cv-12934-JEK)
• Executive session to discuss Amy Hingston Hall v. Town of Brookline (discrimination/retaliation lawsuit, Norfolk Superior Court Case Nos. 2182CV00666 & 2482CV00740)
• Possible transfer from Liability/Catastrophe Fund to settle litigation

School Committee

The Brookline School Committee will hold a regular meeting to discuss and vote on a new K-5 literacy curriculum program, and to discuss the draft 2025-2026 school district calendars, including the possible addition of Eid al-Fitr as a holiday or removal of all Category I holidays. The meeting also includes consent agenda items, reports, public comment, and an executive session on collective bargaining.

• Purchase of a New K-5 Literacy Curriculum Program: Discussion and Vote on Staff Recommendation
• Draft 2025-2026 School District Calendars, including possible addition of Eid al-Fitr or removal of all Category I holidays (Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Lunar New Year, Good Friday)
• Pierce School Project: Leftfield LLC, Change Order No. 6, $12,926.43
• Student trips: Driscoll School Grade 5 and Grade 8 to Farm School, Athol, MA; BHS METCO and AALSP students to Washington, DC
• Executive session to discuss collective bargaining with Brookline Educators Union (BEU) Unit A (Grievance)

The Brookline School Committee unanimously approved the purchase of Fishtank Learning as the new K-5 English Language Arts/Literacy curriculum, following a staff selection process. The committee also discussed draft 2025-2026 school calendars, including the possible addition of Eid al-Fitr as a Category I holiday, but deferred any vote to the January 9, 2025 meeting. Consent agenda items, including acceptance of gifts and grants and student trips, were approved unanimously.

• Approved Fishtank Learning K-5 ELA curriculum purchase (9-0)
• Approved consent agenda including gifts, grants, and student trips (9-0)
• Discussed 2025-2026 school calendar options; vote deferred to Jan. 9, 2025

School Committee

The Brookline School Committee is meeting to enter executive session for collective bargaining and grievance strategy with the Brookline Educators Union (BEU) Unit A, and to approve prior executive session minutes. No public action items are listed; the agenda is procedural and limited to the executive session and adjournment.

• Executive session for collective bargaining with BEU Unit A (grievance hearing)
• Executive session to discuss strategy for BEU Unit A grievance
• Review and approval of executive session minutes from November 14, 2024

The Brookline School Committee voted unanimously to enter executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy with the Brookline Educators Union (BEU) Unit A, conduct a grievance hearing, and review prior executive session minutes. No substantive decisions were made in open session; the open meeting was adjourned shortly after.

• Voted unanimously (8-0) to enter executive session for BEU Unit A bargaining strategy, grievance hearing, and minutes review

Solid Waste Advisory Committee

The Solid Waste Advisory Committee will meet to discuss and possibly vote on FY2026 sanitation fees and the FY2026-FY2030 solid waste and recycling contract, presented by town staff. The agenda also includes approval of prior meeting minutes and planning for 2025 meeting dates and locations.

• Discussion and possible vote on FY2026 sanitation fees
• Discussion and possible vote on FY2026-FY2030 solid waste and recycling contracts
• Approval of October 4 and November 12, 2024 meeting minutes
• Public comment period for issues not on the agenda
• Discussion of 2025 meeting dates and locations

The Brookline Solid Waste Advisory Committee heard a presentation from DPW Commissioner Erin Chute about a proposed five-year contract with Casella for solid waste and recycling collection, along with a 10% trash fee increase for FY2026 and 4% annual increases through 2029. The committee tabled its vote on these proposals until its January 7, 2025 meeting to allow members to review the materials. No formal decisions were made at this meeting.

• Tabled vote on Casella contract and fee increases until Jan 7, 2025
• Approved October 2024 meeting minutes (roll call, all in favor except Rittling abstained)
• Approved November 12, 2024 meeting minutes with minor modifications (roll call, all in favor)

Fisher Hill West Uses Advisory Committee

The Fisher Hill West Uses Advisory Committee is meeting to review and approve the minutes from its September 23, 2024 meeting, receive an update on potential capital and operating funding sources for the site, and discuss the project timeline and next steps. This is a regular advisory committee meeting, with no votes on ordinances or contracts on the agenda.

• Review and approval of 9/23/2024 minutes
• Update on potential financial sources (capital and operating) for the site
• Project timeline and update on next steps

The Fisher Hill West Uses Advisory Committee voted 5-1-0 to accept the September 23, 2024 meeting minutes with no changes. Members discussed funding constraints for a potential Fisher Hill West project, noting that a hypothetical $10M project in FY2029 would require deferring other CIP projects. The committee agreed the consultant schedule for development scenarios was too aggressive and will be revised based on FY2026 funding.

• Approved September 23, 2024 meeting minutes (5-1-0)
• Agreed to discuss budget parameters as a future meeting topic
• Agreed the consultant schedule for development scenarios was too aggressive
• Staff to revise schedule based on FY2026 consultant funding

Small Business Development Committee

The Small Business Development Committee is meeting to review available public art projects and select artists for a mural at 30 Station Street and a painted box at 525 Harvard Street. The agenda is focused on artist selection for these two specific projects.

• Artist selection for Mural 10 at 30 Station Street
• Artist selection for Painted Box at 525 Harvard Street
• Review of available projects

The Brookline Art Makes Community Artist Selection Committee approved artists for two public art projects using leftover funding. Charly Malpass was selected for the mural at 30 Station Street, with Alexander Golob as alternate. Alexander Golob was selected for the painted utility box at 525 Harvard Street, with Julia Palliss as alternate. Both votes were unanimous (5-0).

• Approved Charly Malpass for Mural 10 at 30 Station Street (5-0)
• Approved Alexander Golob as alternate for Mural 10 (5-0)
• Approved Alexander Golob for painted utility box at 525 Harvard Street (5-0)
• Approved Julia Palliss as alternate for painted utility box (5-0)

Transportation Board

The Brookline Transportation Board is meeting to discuss and vote on several transportation items, including a loading zone request, an accessible parking space, an all-way stop installation, and changes to the sidewalk ramp policy. The agenda also includes approval of minutes and a stop sign installation as part of the consent agenda.

• Request by Brookline Food Pantry to convert a No Parking Zone to a Loading Zone at 15 Marion Street, Mon-Fri 7AM-3PM
• Residential request for an accessible parking space at 549 Washington Street
• Installation of an all-way stop at Saint Paul Street and Browne Street
• Changes to the DPW Sidewalk Ramp Construction, Replacement, and Maintenance Policy
• Installation of a stop sign at Seaver Street and Holland Road approaches at Buckminster Road

Chestnut Hill Commercial Area Study Community Advisory Group

The Chestnut Hill Commercial Area Study Community Advisory Group is meeting to receive staff updates on subcommittees, affordable housing discussions, and upcoming traffic and fiscal impact analyses. The main agenda item is a presentation and discussion of updated massing test fits and financial feasibility models by RKG Associates. Public comment is scheduled.

• Presentation and discussion of updated massing test fits by Eric Halvorsen, RKG Associates
• Staff update on EDAB subcommittee tasks and meeting schedule
• Housing Advisory Board initial discussion with City Realty on affordable housing requirements
• Upcoming fiscal impact model and analysis
• Chestnut Hill Commercial Area Traffic Study

Library Trustees

The Brookline Village Library Board of Library Trustees is holding a regular meeting. The main item of business is a review of the current budgeting process, followed by adjournment.

• Review of current budgeting process

Brookline Commission on Disability

The Brookline Commission on Disability is meeting on December 18, 2024, to conduct routine business. The agenda includes convening, roll call, public comment, and a review of presentation notes under new business. No major decisions or proposals are listed.

• Review of presentation notes

Medical Panel

The Brookline Medical Panel is convening to consider and possibly vote on reimbursing retired Town Police Officers and Firefighters for medical expenses they submitted for indemnification. The meeting will move into executive session to discuss exempt medical information, review previous meeting minutes, and vote on reimbursement requests.

• Vote to enter executive session under G.L. c. 30A, s. 21(a)(1) to discuss individual physical/mental health
• Review and possible vote to approve previous meeting minutes
• Review and possible vote to reimburse retired police and firefighters for submitted medical expenses

Brookline Commission on Disability

The Brookline Commission on Disability will convene to approve minutes, welcome a new member, and hear presentations on a proposed sidewalk policy and FY 2025 digital accessibility initiatives. The agenda includes public comment and liaison updates, with no new variances scheduled.

• Proposed new sidewalk policy presented by Erin Chute
• FY 2025 digital accessibility initiatives presented by James Pouliot
• Approval of minutes from November 13 and subcommittee meetings
• New member welcome
• No new variances

The Brookline Commission on Disability voted unanimously to support the DPW's proposed updates to its sidewalk and ramp construction policy, which aim to meet federal ADA standards and prioritize areas near schools and transit. The commission also tabled approval of its meeting minutes for a future meeting. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included informational updates on digital accessibility and transportation board matters.

• Supported DPW's proposed sidewalk and ramp policy updates (6-0)
• Tabled approval of meeting minutes for a future meeting (6-0)

Select Board

The Brookline Select Board will hold a regular meeting with a public hearing on a noise bylaw waiver, license renewals, and several contract approvals. Key items include a $580,047.75 extra work order for Larz Anderson Roadway Improvements, a $94,610 contract for the Climate Action and Resiliency Plan, and a $128,000 Tenant Stabilization Program contract. The board will also discuss a disparity study and final ARPA allocations.

• Extra Work Order #1 with Mass Pavement Reclamation for $580,047.75 (Larz Anderson Roadway Improvements)
• Contract with Blue Strike Environmental for $94,610 (Climate Action and Resiliency Plan)
• Change Order #1 with Nadeau Corporation for $2,362.66 (public safety building locker room)
• All Alcoholic Beverages License for Marky's Caviar Boston at 424 Harvard Street
• Marijuana license renewals for Sanctuary Medicinals, Comm Ave Canna, NETA, and Mission Cannabis

The Select Board approved a $580,047.75 extra work order with Mass Pavement Reclamation for unforeseen ledge conditions on the Larz Anderson Roadway Improvements project. The board also approved a $94,610 contract with Blue Strike Environmental for the Climate Action and Resiliency Plan, and authorized the final slate of ARPA funding allocations. Several license renewals were approved, including conditional approvals for businesses with late fees, and the board voted to transmit two home rule petitions to the State Legislature. A Tenant Stabilization Program contract was postponed.

• Approved $580,047.75 Extra Work Order #1 with Mass Pavement Reclamation for Larz Anderson Roadway Improvements (5-0)
• Approved $94,610 contract with Blue Strike Environmental for Climate Action and Resiliency Plan (5-0)
• Approved final ARPA funding allocations and authorized Town Administrator to reallocate forfeited funds before Dec 31, 2024 (5-0)
• Approved $2,362.66 Change Order #1 with Nadeau Corporation for public safety building locker room (5-0)
• Approved $945.17 Change Order #1 with Consigli Construction for drain issues at Pierce School (5-0)
• Approved nine General Orders for police accreditation compliance (5-0)
• Approved Noise Bylaw waiver for Pierce School equipment delivery on Dec 18, 2024 (5-0)
• Approved Common Victualler and Entertainment licenses for Poki Poki at 415 Harvard St with condition to submit parking delivery plan within 14 days (5-0)

Community Preservation Act Committee

The Community Preservation Act Committee working group is meeting to review four CPA grant applications. No public comment will be taken and no votes will be cast at this meeting.

• Ridley Tennis Court Design
• Coolidge Tennis Court Design
• Community Garden at Elliot Recreation Center
• Putterham Woods Trail Enhancement

The Community Preservation Act Committee's working group met virtually to review four CPA grant applications: Ridley Tennis Court Design, Coolidge Tennis Court Design, a Community Garden at Elliot Recreation Center, and Putterham Woods Trail Enhancement. The committee discussed costs, benefits, timelines, and raised questions—including funding for future construction and sunlight for the garden—but took no votes or formal decisions. Staff were asked to follow up on details such as how many people the garden beds would serve.

• Reviewed Ridley Tennis Court Design application; no action taken
• Reviewed Coolidge Tennis Court Design application; no action taken
• Reviewed Community Garden at Elliot Recreation Center application; no action taken
• Reviewed Putterham Woods Trail Enhancement application; no action taken

Library Trustees

The Brookline Library Trustees Executive Committee is meeting virtually to consider entering executive session for the purpose of strategy sessions in preparation for negotiations with nonunion personnel, specifically a candidate for appointment as Acting Library Director, current Assistant Library Director Danielle Savin. The board does not intend to reconvene in open session after the executive session. The agenda is otherwise procedural, with only call to order and adjournment items.

• Executive session under G.L. c. 30A, § 21(a)(2) for negotiations with nonunion personnel
• Candidate for Acting Library Director: Assistant Library Director Danielle Savin
• Board will not reconvene in open session after executive session

Small Business Development Committee

The Brookline Small Business Development Committee is meeting virtually to discuss items affecting local businesses. They will vote on approving the November 12, 2024 meeting minutes, hear a presentation on winter weatherization for businesses, and receive updates on the Commercial Area Vibrancy Report and the Washington Street Complete Streets Project.

• Vote on approval of November 12, 2024 meeting minutes
• Presentation by Kevin Johnson, Director of Highway & Sanitation, on winter weatherization for businesses
• Presentation by Jessica DeRoy on the Commercial Area Vibrancy Report
• Update on Washington Street Complete Streets Project

The committee approved the November 12, 2024 draft meeting minutes (5-0-2) and received updates on winter weatherization for businesses and the Commercial Area Vibrancy Report. No major policy decisions were made; action items included sending sidewalk maps and drafting a letter on Washington Street project transparency.

• Approved November 12, 2024 draft meeting minutes (5-0-2)
• Action: Kevin Johnson to send sidewalk clearing maps to committee
• Action: DPW to share updated flyers and Winter Guide with Chamber of Commerce
• Action: Jessica DeRoy to include Washington Street project impacts in future reports
• Action: Ailish Gilligan to draft letter requesting timely access to project materials
• Action: John VanScoyoc to raise concerns at next Select Board meeting

Retirement Board

The Brookline Retirement Board is holding a virtual public meeting to discuss and vote on routine retirement system matters, including a preliminary PRIM update, FY25 private equity, an ADR update, the FY26 PERAC appropriation letter, a Hancock Timber dividend distribution, a staffing update, the FY25 retirement budget, a veterans buyback under the Hero's Act, a legal update, and approval of prior month's minutes, payroll, refunds, transfers, and expenses. The agenda is largely procedural and administrative, with no major policy decisions or public hearings listed.

• November 24 PRIM Preliminary Update and FY25 Private Equity
• FY26 PERAC Appropriation Letter
• Hancock Timber Dividend Distribution
• FY25 Retirement Budget
• Hero's Act Veterans Buyback

School Committee

The Brookline School Committee's Policy Review Subcommittee is meeting to discuss and potentially vote on revised versions of the attendance policy (J 3) and the student code of conduct (J 8). The subcommittee will also discuss a draft of a new building access policy. The meeting includes approval of the previous meeting's minutes and new business.

• Review of Revised Attendance Policy (J 3): Discussion and Possible Vote
• Review of Revised Student Code of Conduct (J 8): Discussion and Possible Vote
• Discussion of Draft Building Access Policy (new policy)
• Approval of Minutes: November 18, 2024 Subcommittee Meeting

The Policy Review Subcommittee met to discuss revisions to the attendance policy (J 3) and the Student Code of Conduct (J 8), but took no final votes on either. The subcommittee approved the minutes from the November 18, 2024 meeting. They agreed to continue revising both policies, with next steps including incorporating feedback and presenting new drafts. The subcommittee also decided not to proceed with a building access policy for caregiver access during drop-off and pick-up, but will consider a policy for extended day program access.

• Approved November 18, 2024 subcommittee meeting minutes (3-0)
• Discussed revised attendance policy (J 3); no vote taken, further revisions planned
• Discussed revised Student Code of Conduct (J 8); no vote taken, further revisions planned
• Decided not to proceed with building access policy for caregiver access during drop-off/pick-up
• Agreed to consider a policy for extended day program access to school buildings

Community Preservation Act Committee

The Community Preservation Act Committee is meeting to review four CPA grant applications. This is a working group session; no public comment will be taken and no votes will be cast. The applications include restoration projects for the Temple Ohabei Shalom Dome, the Historic Chemical Firehouse, the Pierce School Friezes, and a Phase I Archives Pilot Project.

• Temple Ohabei Shalom Dome Restoration
• Restoration of Historic Chemical Firehouse
• Pierce School Friezes Restoration
• Phase I Archives Pilot Project

The Community Preservation Act Committee working group reviewed four grant applications but made no final decisions. The committee requested additional financial documentation for the Temple Ohabei Shalom dome restoration, flagged eligibility and conflict-of-interest concerns for the Chemical Firehouse project, and asked for more details on the Pierce School friezes and archives pilot projects. No votes were taken.

• Reviewed Temple Ohabei Shalom dome restoration request ($800,000); requested more financial documentation
• Reviewed Historic Chemical Firehouse restoration; flagged ineligible expenses and conflict of interest
• Reviewed Pierce School friezes restoration; confirmed CPA compliance
• Reviewed Phase I Archives Pilot Project; requested more details on public engagement

Shared Mobility Advisory Committee

The Shared Mobility Advisory Committee will meet to approve prior meeting minutes and discuss several mobility topics, including committee membership, Bluebikes expansion grants, a Washington Street DRC update, and a presentation on Bus Route 51. Public comment is also scheduled for items not on the agenda.

• Approve minutes from previous meetings
• Discussion of Bluebikes expansion grants
• Washington Street DRC update
• Bus Route 51 update presented by Julie and Richard
• Public comment for non-agenda items

The Shared Mobility Advisory Committee approved meeting minutes from September and June 2024, and voted unanimously to approve a draft statement supporting a Bluebikes expansion grant application. Members also introduced prospective new members, discussed proposed expansion sites, reviewed bus line updates, and adjourned the meeting.

• Approved September 17, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved June 25, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved draft statement in support of Bluebikes expansion grant application (4-0)

Planning Board

The Brookline Planning Board is holding an evening meeting to discuss and potentially act on a Chapter 40A case involving the demolition of two single-family houses at 90-100 Bellingham Road to build a religious house of worship, school, and pre-school for the Chabad Center for Jewish Life. The agenda also includes public comment on matters not on the agenda and a tentative Zoning Board of Appeals hearing date.

• 90-100 Bellingham Road (cont.) – Demolish two single-family houses, combine lots, and construct a religious house of worship, religious school, and pre-school for the Chabad Center for Jewish Life (12/19) Pct. 15
• Public Comment on Matters Not on the Agenda
• Board of Appeals Cases (Tentative Zoning Board of Appeals Hearing Date)

The Brookline Planning Board voted unanimously to recommend approval of the Chabad Center for Jewish Life project at 90-100 Bellingham Road, which involves demolishing two single-family houses and constructing a religious house of worship, school, and preschool. The recommendation is subject to conditions including plan corrections, landscaping, construction management, lighting, and a neighborhood meeting. The board closed public comment at a prior meeting, so no public comment was heard this session.

• Recommended approval of Chabad Center site plan and architectural plans (unanimous)
• Required removal of elevator-to-roof door from plans
• Required final floor plans and elevations stamped by architect before building permit
• Required landscaping, tree protection, and fencing plans before certificate of occupancy
• Required construction management plan including lead and asbestos remediation before building permit
• Required lighting plan with timers and shields before building permit
• Required neighborhood meeting during first year of occupancy
• Required evidence of Board of Appeals decision before building permit

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Brookline Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a continued virtual public hearing on December 12, 2024, for a Comprehensive Permit application by CH Realty Ventures LLC. The project proposes a 6-story residential building with 105 apartments, 25% affordable, at 621 & 615 Hammond Street and adjacent streets. The hearing is continued without discussion or testimony, and public comment will be taken.

• Comprehensive Permit under M.G.L. c.40B for 105-unit development
• 25% of units affordable at 80% Area Median Income
• 83 garage parking spaces, 3 at-grade spaces, 106 bicycle spaces
• Location: 621 & 615 Hammond St; 8, 14, & 18 Sheafe St; 545 & 555 Heath St
• Hearing continued without discussion or testimony

Park & Recreation Commission

The Park and Recreation Commission's Design Review Committee will meet to review proposed path concepts along Incinerator Drive for Skyline Park Phase 2. The committee will discuss the budget for the concepts, hear public comment, and vote on a preferred concept. This is a working session focused on design and budget decisions.

• Presentation of proposed path concepts along Incinerator Drive
• Budget discussion for proposed concepts
• Public comment on proposed concepts
• Voting on preferred concept
• Approval of July 29, 2024 meeting minutes

The Park and Recreation Commission voted unanimously to approve Option 2 for the proposed path concepts along Incinerator Drive, which uses porous asphalt and is ADA-compliant. The design reduces car lane widths and includes a 5-foot path, 2-foot buffer, and two 10-foot lanes. The project budget was discussed, with costs remaining in the 7-digit range despite efforts to reduce them.

• Approved July 29, 2024 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved Option 2 path design along Incinerator Drive (6-0)

School Committee

The Government Relations Subcommittee of the Brookline School Committee will meet to approve minutes from October and discuss and possibly vote on the draft 2025 Legislative Priorities. This is a regular subcommittee meeting focused on setting the district's legislative agenda.

• Approval of minutes from October 17, 2024 meeting
• Discussion and possible vote on draft 2025 Legislative Priorities

The Government Relations Subcommittee approved the October 17, 2024 meeting minutes unanimously. Members discussed and agreed to pare down the 2025 Legislative Priorities, focusing on fiscal health and stability, with a final vote expected at the January 9 School Committee meeting.

• Approved October 17, 2024 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Discussed 2025 Legislative Priorities, agreed to focus on fiscal health and stability

MLK Celebration Committee

The MLK Celebration Committee is meeting remotely to approve minutes from its Dec 4, 2024 meeting and discuss updates on MLK Day 2025. The agenda also includes other or new business and scheduling the next meeting. This is a routine administrative and planning session.

• Approve minutes from Dec 4, 2024 meeting
• Updates on MLK Day 2025 discussion

The committee approved the December 4 minutes and discussed updates for MLK Day 2025, including outreach to potential speakers and finalizing promotional materials. The poster was shared and sent to Red Sun Press, Gillian for the Kiosk, and the Walgreens window. A blurb is being drafted for the website and newsletters.

• Approved minutes from Dec 4, 2024 (4-0)
• Poster finalized and sent to Red Sun Press, Gillian for the Kiosk, and Walgreens window
• Caitlin to draft blurb and share with Rob for website and newsletters

Board of Assessors

The Brookline Board of Assessors is meeting to handle routine administrative business, including approving prior meeting minutes, reviewing correspondence, and signing warrants or contracts if any are presented. The board may also take action on abatement applications, tax exemption requests, and assessment standard changes, though the agenda lists these as conditional items. No specific proposals or dollar amounts are listed in the agenda.

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

The Board of Assessors approved and signed two Fiscal Year 2025 warrants—$6,792,852.63 for personal property and $305,775,521.93 for real estate—plus a $3,057,755.93 CPA warrant. They also granted 70 personal exemptions and approved the prior meeting's minutes. Staffing was discussed, noting a person was chosen for the Assistant Assessor Residential/Commercial position. The board held a brief executive session on pending Appellate Tax Board cases.

• Approved FY2025 Personal Property Warrant for $6,792,852.63
• Approved FY2025 Real Estate Warrant for $305,775,521.93
• Approved FY2025 CPA Warrant for $3,057,755.93
• Granted 70 FY2025 Personal Exemptions
• Approved minutes of November 21, 2024 meeting

Select Board

The Brookline Select Board is holding a licensing hearing to decide on several permits, including Eversource underground conduit installations, new alcohol and food service licenses, and license transfers. The board will also review meeting minutes and calendar items. Most items are routine licensing matters, with public hearings for the Eversource petitions and several alcohol-related applications.

• Eversource underground conduit in Sewall Avenue (290 ft) and Kent Street (95 ft)
• Eversource underground conduit in Mountfort Street (66 ft)
• All Alcohol Beverages License for Marky's Caviar Boston at 424 Harvard Street
• Transfer of All Alcohol Package Store License to Putterham Market at 189 Grove Street
• New Common Victualler licenses for Poki Poki (415 Harvard St) and L.A. Burdick Chocolates (1330 Beacon St)

The Select Board held public hearings and recommended approval for several licenses and permits, including Eversource conduit installations, alcohol and food service licenses for Marky's Caviar Boston, a liquor license transfer for Putterham Market, and a common victualler license for L.A. Burdick Chocolates. The hearing for Poki Poki's common victualler and entertainment licenses was continued to December 17. No final votes were taken; all recommendations are slated for the Select Board's miscellaneous agenda.

• Recommended approval of Eversource conduit installation on Sewall Avenue and Kent Street
• Recommended approval of Eversource conduit installation on Mountfort Street
• Recommended approval of alcohol, common victualler, entertainment licenses and alternate manager for Marky's Caviar Boston, conditioned on police fingerprinting
• Recommended approval of liquor license transfer and change of location for Putterham Market, with corrected hours (9 AM Mon-Sat, 10 AM Sun)
• Continued Poki Poki common victualler and entertainment license hearing to December 17
• Recommended approval of common victualler and entertainment licenses for L.A. Burdick Chocolates
• Recommended approval of reduced hours for LaMorra restaurant
• Recommended approval of secondhand articles license for 2nd Street USA, conditioned on Fire Department approval

Zero Emissions Advisory Board

The Brookline Zero Emissions Advisory Board is meeting in person to approve prior meeting minutes, hear public comment, receive updates from the chair and the Sustainability and Natural Resources Division, and continue discussion of its working groups. The board will also discuss its 2025 meeting schedule and address other business before adjourning.

• Approval of November 20, 2024 meeting minutes
• Public comment period
• Chair update
• Sustainability and Natural Resources Division update
• Discussion of 2025 meeting schedule

The Zero Emissions Advisory Board approved the minutes from its November 20, 2024 meeting. The board discussed the selection of a preferred vendor for the Climate Action Plan, with a contract expected to be shared at the January 7, 2025 Select Board meeting. No other formal decisions were made; the meeting focused on updates and discussions regarding working groups, the 2025 meeting schedule, and board membership.

• Approved November 20, 2024 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Planning Board

The Brookline Planning Board is holding a sign and facade review meeting to consider new or replacement signs and awnings for several businesses. The board will also hear public comment on matters not on the agenda and note sign cases approved administratively.

• 139 Cypress Street: new channel letter sign for Iriskin (formerly Ace Tickets)
• 420 Harvard Street: replace awnings with illuminated wall sign for Marky's Caviar (formerly PrimeLending)
• 39 Harvard Street: new wall sign for Figurella
• 198 Harvard Street: LED price panel for Mobil gas station (approved administratively)
• 1330 Beacon Street: replace awning for L.A. Burdick Chocolates (approved administratively)

The Brookline Planning Board unanimously approved three sign/façade review cases: a new channel letter sign for Iriskin at 139 Cypress Street, an illuminated wall sign for Marky's Caviar at 420 Harvard Street, and a new wall sign for Figurella at 39 Harvard Street. All approvals were subject to conditions, including final plan review by the Director of Regulatory Planning and rheostat requirements for illuminated signs. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved Iriskin sign at 139 Cypress Street, subject to conditions (unanimous)
• Approved Marky's Caviar sign at 420 Harvard Street, subject to conditions (unanimous)
• Approved Figurella sign at 39 Harvard Street, subject to conditions (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Brookline Planning Board is holding a public hearing on a Site Plan and Design Review application for 264 Washington Street, where Little Children Schoolhouse proposes to demolish an existing one-story building and construct a new four-story building for daycare use. The applicant has revised the plans to a mixed-use development with increased setbacks. The board may close the hearing and vote on the application.

• Demolition of existing 1-story building and construction of new 4-story daycare building
• Revised plans: change to mixed use with increased setbacks
• Technical Review Team follow-up report
• Draft findings and conditions
• Possible close of hearing and board vote

The Planning Board unanimously approved the Limited Site Plan and Design Review for a four-story mixed-use building at 264 Washington Street, containing a childcare facility on floors 1-2 and three residential units on floors 3-4. The approval is subject to conditions and pending Board of Appeals approval for any required special permits or variances. The hearing was closed after the vote.

• Approved Limited Site Plan and Design Review for childcare and residential portions (5-0, Blair Hines absent)
• Closed the public hearing for the project
• Directed applicant to continue discussions with abutter at 256 Washington Street regarding setbacks
• Directed Transportation staff to provide drop-off/pick-up data from other area daycares
• Directed applicant to clarify noise management from occupants
• Required follow-up report from Technical Review Team prior to any Board vote

Human Resources Board

The Brookline Human Resources Board will meet virtually to hold an executive session for a Step 2 Fire Grievance Hearing and to approve prior executive session minutes. The board will also review a new position for the Recreation Department, discuss a policy against discrimination, harassment, and retaliation, and approve regular meeting minutes.

• Step 2 Fire Grievance Hearing (executive session)
• Approval of executive session minutes for 8.21.2024 and 10.09.2024
• New position: Recreation Department - Assistant Director of Early Childhood Education
• Policy review: Policy Against Discrimination, Harassment and Retaliation
• Approval of regular minutes for 8.21.2024 and 10.09.2024

The Brookline Human Resources Board met on December 11, 2024, and approved an updated Policy Against Discrimination, Harassment and Retaliation, as well as a new Assistant Director of Early Childhood Education job description. The board also approved minutes from August 21 and October 9, 2024, and held an executive session to discuss a Step 2 grievance from IAFF Local 950. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved updated Policy Against Discrimination, Harassment and Retaliation (3-0)
• Approved Assistant Director of Early Childhood Education job description (3-0)
• Approved minutes for August 21, 2024 and October 9, 2024 (3-0)
• Moved into executive session to consider IAFF Local 950 Step 2 grievance (3-0)
• Moved out of executive session (3-0)

Brookline Commission on Disability

The Brookline Commission on Disability's December 11 meeting is postponed to December 17 at 5:30 PM via Zoom. The agenda includes discussion of a proposed new sidewalk policy and FY 2025 digital accessibility initiatives, along with routine items like minutes approval and liaison updates.

• Proposed new sidewalk policy presentation by Erin Chute
• FY 2025 digital accessibility initiatives by James Pouliot
• Approval of minutes from November 11, 2024 and subcommittee meetings
• New member welcome
• No new variances

School Committee

The Brookline School Committee's Finance Subcommittee is meeting to discuss budget reporting and development. They will review the FY25 salary deficit and efforts to close it, and discuss possible FY26 fee changes for BEEP and BACE programs. The meeting also includes approval of minutes, grant applications, and other budget updates.

• Approval of minutes from November 13, 2024 meeting
• Approval of grant applications and acceptance of grants and gifts
• Review of Position Control Report
• Update on FY25 salary deficit and closing the gap
• Discussion and possible vote on FY26 fees for BEEP and BACE

The Finance Subcommittee unanimously recommended accepting a $25 anonymous gift and a $17,000 Mass Cultural Council grant. Members reviewed the FY25 projected salary deficit of $1,157,443 and the preliminary FY26 revenue estimate of $139,627,462, noting it is lower than anticipated. The Chief of Strategic Initiatives position was discussed but not moved forward. No final decisions were made on the budget.

• Approved November 13, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Recommended accepting $25 anonymous gift for BHS Queer Student Union (4-0)
• Recommended accepting $17,000 Mass Cultural Council grant for Brookline Adult & Community Education (4-0)

Community Preservation Act Committee

The Community Preservation Act Committee working group will review six CPA grant applications at this meeting. No votes will be taken and public comment will not be accepted. The applications cover boardwalk replacement, invasive species removal, tree care, and a composting restroom.

• Amory Woods Boardwalk Replacement
• Riverway Park Invasive Species Removal
• D. Blakely Hoar Invasive Species Removal
• Halls Pond Invasive Species Removal
• Tree Inventory Planting & Pruning

The Community Preservation Act Committee working group reviewed six CPA grant applications. It approved the Riverway Park Invasive Species Removal project as eligible under Open Space and Recreation. Other applications, including the Amory Woods Boardwalk Replacement, were discussed but required further clarification or site visits.

• Approved Riverway Park Invasive Species Removal as eligible project (Open Space and Recreation)
• Requested clarification on Amory Woods Boardwalk Replacement budget and scope
• Scheduled site visit for Composting Restroom at Putterham

Council on Aging

The Brookline Council on Aging is holding its regular hybrid meeting. The agenda includes routine items such as accepting minutes, public comment, and committee reports, along with updates on the search for a new director and the senior center parking plan. The meeting also includes a tribute to Director Ruthann Dobek.

• Update on search for Council on Aging Director
• Update on Senior Center parking plan
• Tribute to Director Ruthann Dobek
• Committee reports from Nominating, Springwell, and Recreation
• Report from Select Board

The Council on Aging unanimously accepted the October 9, 2024 minutes. The meeting featured a presentation from Recreation Director Tim Davis on department offerings and future goals, plus reports on the state Formula Grant ($198,330 approved), a $25,000 earmark for food insecurity, and updates on the Senior Center director search and parking plan. No formal votes were taken on substantive policy items.

• Accepted October 9, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved state Formula Grant of $198,330 for senior center personnel
• Received $25,000 earmark for food insecurity programs
• Extended Senior Center director job posting with revised requirements
• Discussed proposal for Senior Center parking zone to allow longer parking

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a continued public hearing for site plan review and a traffic presentation on the Brookline Housing Authority's proposed redevelopment of the Walnut/High Apartments. The 181-unit project, in the MBTA-CA Multifamily Overlay District, would be built in two phases, including demolition of existing structures and construction of two buildings with a mix of unit sizes and underground parking.

• Continued site plan review for 22-42 Walnut Street, 4-12 Walnut Street, and 22 High Street
• 181-unit proposal with two phases: 95-unit building and 8 townhouses (Phase 1), 85-unit building (Phase 2)
• Demolition of three structures at 4-12, 16-24, and 28-42 Walnut Street, and 22 High Street
• Traffic presentation for the Brookline Housing Authority project
• Project in MBTA-CA Multifamily Overlay District, Precinct 4

The Brookline Planning Board unanimously approved the site plan review for the mixed-use development at 22-42 Walnut Street, 4-12 Walnut Street, and 22 High Street, subject to revised conditions. The applicant accepted conditions requiring Traffic Demand Management and Stormwater Management Plans before a building permit is issued. Final site, architectural, landscape, tree protection, and lighting plans must still be reviewed and approved by the board.

• Approved site plan review for 22-42 Walnut St, 4-12 Walnut St, and 22 High St (unanimous)
• Required Traffic Demand Management Plan and Stormwater Management Plan before building permit
• Required final site, architectural, landscape, tree protection, and lighting plans to be approved by Planning Board

Conservation Commission

The Brookline Conservation Commission will hold public hearings and consider issuing orders for two properties: a continuation for 1281 W Roxbury Pkwy and a new request for 400 Heath St. They will also discuss staff updates on permits, the Mass Leads Act, and other administrative matters.

• Public hearing continuation for 1281 W Roxbury Pkwy (DEP #120-0203, BWB #24-03)
• Public hearing for 400 Heath St: Request for Determination of Applicability
• Issuance of Order of Conditions for 1281 W Roxbury Pkwy
• Issuance of Determination of Applicability for 400 Heath St
• Staff update on Mass Leads Act permit extension and proposed 2025 meeting schedule

The Conservation Commission approved past meeting minutes, closed public hearings, and issued orders of conditions and determinations for projects at 1281 W Roxbury Pkwy and 400 Heath St. Commissioners also heard staff updates on active permits, the Mass Leads Act permit extension, and the upcoming departure of Urban Forestry Manager Thomas Brady.

• Approved October 15, 2024 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved October 30, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0, 1 abstention)
• Closed public hearing for 1281 W Roxbury Pkwy Notice of Intent (6-0)
• Closed public hearing for 400 Heath St Request for Determination of Applicability (6-0)
• Approved Order of Conditions for 1281 W Roxbury Pkwy with tree planting stipulations (6-0)
• Issued a conditional negative #6 determination for 400 Heath St without requiring a wetland scientist (6-0)
• Adjourned the meeting at 9:31 pm (6-0)

Preservation Commission

The Brookline Preservation Commission will hold public hearings on several local historic district (LHD) cases, including retroactive certificates of appropriateness for window and fenestration changes, and two demolition applications. The commission will also discuss and vote on a CPA grant support letter for the Putterham Golf Clubhouse, recommend a member to the Committee of Seven for the Larz Anderson Park Skating Ring project, and review a viewshed restriction for 222 Warren Street.

• 82 Carlton Street (Cottage Farm LHD): retroactive Certificate of Appropriateness for replacing two windows
• 37 Osborne Road (Graffam-McKay LHD): Certificate of Appropriateness to alter rear fenestration pattern
• 278 Clinton Road: partial demolition of house (Kenwood Builders LLC)
• 29 Goodnough Road: full demolition of house (RLAW)
• 1281 W. Roxbury Parkway: vote on historical significance and support letter for CPA grant for Putterham Golf Clubhouse

The Commission denied a retroactive Certificate of Appropriateness for two replacement windows at 82 Carlton Street, with a 6-1 vote, and also denied consideration of hardship. It approved a fenestration change at 37 Osborne Road, upheld significance for partial demolition at 278 Clinton Road, found 29 Goodnough Road not significant, and supported a CPA-funded window repair project at Putterham Golf Course.

• Denied retroactive Certificate of Appropriateness for windows at 82 Carlton St (6-1)
• Denied hardship consideration for 82 Carlton St (7-0)
• Approved fenestration alteration at 37 Osborne Rd (7-0)
• Upheld staff finding of significance for partial demolition at 278 Clinton Rd (7-0)
• Found 29 Goodnough Rd not significant for full demolition (7-0)
• Found Putterham Golf Course clubhouse historically significant (7-0)
• Approved letter of support for Putterham Golf Course window repair (7-0)

Brookline Adult and Community Education

The Brookline Adult and Community Education board is meeting to discuss board membership and terms, and receive updates on enrollment trends, revenue trends, and marketing efforts. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Review of board membership and terms
• Update on enrollment trends
• Update on revenue trends
• Update on marketing and advertising efforts

Library Trustees

The Brookline Library Trustees are holding a regular hybrid meeting to discuss routine reports and an item on hiring an outside consultancy. The agenda includes public comment, approval of minutes, and reports from the Treasurer and Library Director, with no new business listed.

• Public comment with a 3-minute limit
• Approval of meeting minutes from 11/12/24
• Treasurer's report
• Library Director's report with statistical and financial presentations
• Discussion of ad hoc committee to hire outside consultancy

Building Commission

The Brookline Building Commission is holding its monthly meeting to review and vote on requisitions and change orders for several capital projects, including the Pierce and Driscoll schools, fire stations 1 and 4, and the Brookline Police lockers. They will also discuss the Brookline High School tunnel project, Lambrian status, and 22 Tappan Street, and consider sending out a request for qualifications for general contractors for the police lockers project.

• Review and vote on requisitions and change orders for Pierce School project
• Review and vote on requisitions and change orders for Driscoll School project
• Review and vote on requisitions and change orders for Fire Stations 1 and 4
• Review and vote on requisitions and change orders for Brookline Police Lockers
• Discussion of sending out RFQ for general contractors for police lockers

Park & Recreation Commission

The Brookline Park and Recreation Commission will meet to approve minutes, hear public comment, and receive presentations from recreation staff. The main business is a presentation, discussion, and vote on the Schick Park design concept and a separate item on Monmouth Park Phase 2. The commission will also consider rescheduling the January meeting and receive updates from staff and subcommittees.

• Vote on Schick Park design concept
• Vote on Monmouth Park Phase 2
• Recreation program presentations: Therapeutic Recreation and Community Events
• January meeting reschedule to January 7th
• Public comment on non-agenda park topics

The commission approved the minutes from the November 12, 2024 meeting and rescheduled the January meeting to January 7, 2025. The session primarily consisted of presentations on therapeutic recreation, community events, and park redesign concepts.

• Approved November 12, 2024 meeting minutes
• Rescheduled January meeting to January 7, 2025

Tree Planting Committee

The Brookline Tree Planting Committee will meet via Zoom to approve minutes from October 30, hear a presentation from the MBTA about the C Branch Accessibility Project, and receive a staff update. The meeting is primarily informational, with no votes on tree-related actions listed.

• Approval of minutes from October 30, 2024
• MBTA presentation on C Branch Accessibility Project
• Staff update

The committee heard a presentation from the MBTA on the Green Line C Branch Accessibility Project, which includes removing trees at several stations but also replanting as mitigation. No formal decisions were made; the committee approved the October 30, 2024 minutes and received updates from staff. The project is still in early design, with construction expected to start in September 2025.

• Approved minutes from October 30, 2024 (unanimous)
• Received MBTA presentation on C Branch accessibility project (no vote)
• Noted Tom Brady's departure and Peter Jutras as new contact (no vote)

School Committee

The Brookline School Committee's Curriculum Subcommittee will meet to approve minutes, hear a presentation on middle school science, and discuss the PSB middle school program. This is a working meeting focused on curriculum review.

• Approval of minutes from November 25, 2024 subcommittee meeting
• Presentation on Middle School Science
• Discussion of the PSB Middle School Program

The subcommittee approved the minutes from the November 25 meeting. Members received presentations on the transition to Open SciEd science materials and discussed factors contributing to the high national rankings of Brookline's middle schools.

• Approved November 25, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0)

Age Friendly Cities Committee

The Age Friendly Cities Committee will review minutes, discuss its composition, and introduce a goals and priorities template. Updates will cover the Council on Aging Director position, a MetroBridge project with the Executive Office of Elder Affairs, the Community Health Assessment, and Brookline's Comprehensive Plan. The committee will also discuss pedestrian safety on Washington Street and hear subcommittee reports.

• Update on Council on Aging Director position
• MetroBridge project with Executive Office of Elder Affairs
• Washington Street pedestrian safety project
• New EOEA Secretary Robin Lipson to be named
• Discussion of accessory dwelling units as potential topic

The Age-Friendly Cities Committee approved the October 8, 2024 meeting minutes (9-0-0) and heard updates from the Recreation Director, MetroBridge project, and subcommittees. No substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting focused on reports and ongoing planning.

• Approved October 8, 2024 meeting minutes (9-0-0)
• Designated Matt Weiss as note taker
• Named John Seay, Matt Weiss, and Maria Foster as co-hosts

Select Board

The Brookline Select Board will hold a work session to review the FY2026 financial forecast and preliminary Capital Improvements Plan, and to consider several contracts and change orders, including a $946,909 water meter installation contract. The board will also hold a public hearing on a noise bylaw waiver for Pierce School construction and discuss revisions to the town's anti-discrimination policy.

• Contract PW/25-04 with Hydro Utilities, LLC for $946,909 for small water meter installation services
• Change Order #13 with Lambrian Construction for a $107,965 credit on the BHS 3rd floor and quad project (project closed)
• Multiple change orders with Miller Dyer Spears for the Pierce School project totaling over $476,000
• Public hearing on a noise bylaw waiver for Pierce School equipment delivery/assembly on Dec 18, 2024, 4 AM–3 PM
• Discussion and possible vote on creating an Expenditures and Revenues Study Committee

The Board approved a new process for 1 a.m. and 2 a.m. licenses within four designated districts. Other actions included approving a $914,400 library HVAC contract and authorizing a hybrid Special Town Meeting for November 19, 2024.

• Approved late-night licensing districts for Brookline Village, Commonwealth Ave., Coolidge Corner, and Washington Square (5-0)
• Approved $914,400 contract for Main Library HVAC System (5-0)
• Approved $227,000 UASI grant for a reinforced security vehicle (4-1)
• Approved $30,300 contract amendment for Water Service Line Inventory (5-0)
• Approved hybrid Special Town Meeting for Nov 19, 2024, and its warrant (5-0)
• Authorized hiring for one DPW Conservation Assistant, three library positions, and one police dispatcher (5-0)
• Directed Transportation Division to remove off-site parking requirements for NETA (5-0)
• Authorized Town Administrator to execute a Memorandum of Agreement on Town Meeting outcome reporting (5-0)

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, statutory exemptions, and contract services. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific items listed.

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

Washington Street Design Review Committee

The Washington Street Design Review Committee is meeting to review design alternatives for two critical sections of Washington Street: from Holden Street to Harvard Street, and at Harvard Street in Brookline Village. The committee will discuss feedback from its October meeting, identify goals, and work toward design recommendations and next steps. Public comment is included on the agenda.

• Review of design alternatives for Washington Street from Holden Street to Harvard Street
• Review of design alternatives for Washington Street at Harvard Street (Brookline Village)
• Discussion of feedback from the October Design Review Committee meeting
• Design recommendations and next steps
• Public comment period

Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee

The Brookline Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee will review visioning engagement results and begin drafting the plan's vision statement. They will also recap Town Meeting outcomes and discuss the timeline for reviewing referred warrant articles, without discussing their content. Public comment is invited at the start of the meeting.

• Drafting of the vision statement, cornerstone of the comprehensive plan
• Discussion of Town Meeting results and referred warrant articles timeline
• Review of visioning engagement results on neighborhoods, commercial areas, mobility, sustainability, and equity
• Approval of meeting minutes from July 17 and September 16

The Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee approved the draft minutes from its July 17 and September 16 meetings unanimously. Members reviewed visioning engagement results, including over 10,900 comments from workshops and surveys, and discussed draft themes for the comprehensive plan, such as neighborhoods, economy, sustainability, mobility, and regionalism. No formal decisions were made on the plan's content; the meeting focused on discussion and feedback.

• Approved July 17 and September 16 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Commission for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Community Relations

The Immigrant Advancement Committee, part of Brookline's Commission for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Community Relations, is meeting remotely to vote on minutes, receive updates, and continue discussions on the Welcome Booklet distribution and future projects. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific decisions or dollar amounts listed.

• Vote on meeting minutes
• Updates on Welcome Booklet distribution
• Discussion of new projects and future work
• Wrap-up and action steps

Brookline Commission for the Arts

The Brookline Commission for the Arts holds its regular meeting to approve prior minutes, hear the treasurer's report, discuss logistics for First Light | The Arcade, review grant spending, and consider grant applications. The agenda is routine business with no major policy decisions.

• Review and approve minutes of November 6, 2024 meeting
• Treasurer's report by John Dukakis
• First Light | The Arcade logistics
• Grant spending review
• Review of grant applications

Pedestrian Advisory Committee

The Brookline Pedestrian Advisory Committee will review meeting minutes, hear updates from the Commission on Disability, discuss how to use grant-funded police enforcement for pedestrian safety, and consider a proposed sidewalk/ramp policy from the Department of Public Works. They may vote on a support memo for the Transportation Board. The committee will also address scheduling conflicts and potential future tasks.

• Discussion of grant-funded police enforcement for pedestrian safety with Police Liaison Sgt Keith Lacy
• Review of updated 'Sidewalk/Ramp Construction, Replacement, and Maintenance Policy' from DPW; possible vote on support memo
• Updates on Vision Zero Project and Washington Street Complete Streets Project
• Housekeeping: finding new monthly meeting day due to conflict with Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee

The Committee approved minutes from its October 7 meeting and discussed proposed updates to the Town's sidewalk and ramp repair policy. Members reviewed police enforcement efforts regarding pedestrian safety and identified specific locations for future monitoring. The Committee also discussed strategies for public outreach and improving the efficiency of its internal operations.

• Approved October 7, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Agreed to draft a memo to the Transportation Board regarding sidewalk policy

Community Preservation Act Committee

The Community Preservation Act Committee is meeting virtually to review four Community Preservation Act applications: Larz Anderson Outdoor Skating Rink Design, Minot Rose Garden Trellis Renovation, Old Burying Ground, and Clubhouse Window Restoration. This is a working group session; no public comment will be taken and no votes will be cast.

• Larz Anderson Outdoor Skating Rink Design
• Minot Rose Garden Trellis Renovation
• Old Burying Ground
• Clubhouse Window Restoration

The Community Preservation Act Committee's working group met virtually on December 6, 2024, to review four CPA grant applications: the Lars Anderson Skating Rink project, Rose Garden Trellis restoration, Old Burying Ground fence restoration, and Clubhouse Window restoration. No formal votes or decisions were taken; the committee instead discussed each project and assigned follow-up actions, such as investigating funding sources and confirming preservation compliance. The meeting was procedural, with all items remaining under review.

• Reviewed Lars Anderson Skating Rink project; action: investigate additional funding sources and clarify long-term financial planning
• Reviewed Rose Garden Trellis restoration; action: confirm whether commemorative plaque is included in budget
• Reviewed Old Burying Ground fence restoration; action: ensure compliance with preservation standards and investigate educational signage
• Reviewed Clubhouse Window restoration; action: confirm storm window treatment and preservation compliance
• No formal votes or approvals taken during the meeting

Indigenous Peoples Celebration Committee

The Indigenous Peoples Celebration Committee is holding a remote meeting to approve minutes from the previous meeting and discuss book club selections. The agenda includes routine items such as open meeting, minutes approval, book club discussions, and new business.

• Approve minutes from 11/15/24 meeting
• Book club discussions
• Other or new business
• Next meeting scheduling

The Indigenous Peoples Celebration Committee approved the minutes from their November 15, 2024, meeting. Members also discussed upcoming book club selections and potential future events, including a collaboration with Brookline Booksmith for Earth Day.

• Approved minutes from 11/15/24 (4-0-1)

Economic Development Advisory Board

The Economic Development Advisory Board's Chestnut Hill Commercial Area Study Ad-Hoc Subcommittee is meeting to review its finalized charge, receive staff updates on the study's progress, and discuss tasks, scheduling, and meeting format. This is an organizational and planning session rather than a decision-making meeting on specific projects.

• Review of finalized subcommittee charge and objectives
• Staff updates on Chestnut Hill Commercial Area Study progress
• Discussion of tasks and areas of study
• Discussion of scheduling and meeting format

The Economic Development Advisory Board's Chestnut Hill Commercial Area Study Ad-Hoc Subcommittee held its first meeting, reviewing its charge and discussing tasks. Members agreed to build their own financial proforma analyses to evaluate development feasibility under current and potential zoning, with Ken Lewis and Sandi Silk leading the effort. They also discussed studying housing as a potential use and set a next meeting for January 10, 2025. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was primarily organizational and planning-focused.

• Agreed to build own proforma analyses for development feasibility
• Ken Lewis and Sandi Silk to lead proforma drafting
• Set next meeting for January 10, 2025 at 3pm
• Agreed to study housing as a potential use in the study area

Advisory Committee

The Capital and Schools Subcommittees of the Brookline Advisory Committee are holding a joint public meeting to review and discuss proposed changes to the FY 26 Mini-CIP, which was approved at the May 2024 Town Meeting. The meeting is open to the public, but public comments are not taken during the meeting; written comments may be submitted in advance.

• Review proposed changes to FY 26 Mini-CIP approved at May 2024 Town Meeting
• Joint meeting of Capital and Schools Subcommittees
• Public may submit written comments by noon the day prior to the hearing

The Capital & Schools Subcommittee voted 6-0 to recommend that the Select Board not approve any new projects for inclusion in the FY 25 & FY 26 Mini-CIP until December 2025. The recommendation responds to the Public Schools of Brookline's November 6, 2024 proposal to reallocate Mini-CIP funds, which included postponing the Lincoln Kitchen and Cafeteria project and reducing Runkle flooring from $500,000 to $100,000. The subcommittee also discussed the need for outside expertise to assess deferred maintenance and create a plan.

• Recommended Select Board not approve new Mini-CIP projects until Dec 2025 (6-0)
• Discussed PSB proposal to reallocate Mini-CIP funds, including postponing Lincoln Kitchen & Cafeteria and reducing Runkle flooring
• Noted concern about reducing Runkle flooring from $500,000 to $100,000
• Discussed need for outside consultant to assess deferred maintenance and sustainability goals

Small Business Development Committee

The Small Business Development Committee is meeting as the Brookline Art Makes Community (BAMC) Steering Committee to review program updates, approve selected artists for the Murals Around Town project, and discuss the BAMC logo, First Flight, leftover funding, and the BAMC webpage. This is a working session with decisions on artist approvals and program direction.

• Approval of Murals Around Town selected artists
• BAMC program updates
• BAMC logo discussion
• First Flight discussion
• Leftover funding discussion

The Brookline Art Makes Community (BAMC) Steering Committee approved the selected artists and initial designs for the Murals Around Town program (5-0) and adopted a new BAMC logo (5-0). The committee also discussed program updates, the First Flight at First Light event, and options for spending a $2,500 surplus before the December 20, 2024 ARPA deadline, with staff to research costs and finalize a decision later.

• Approved Murals Around Town selected artists and initial designs (5-0)
• Approved adoption of new BAMC logo (5-0)
• Discussed options for $2,500 surplus; no decision made, staff to research costs
• Noted artist agreements must be signed by December 13, 2024, and funding committed by December 20, 2024

School Committee

The Brookline School Committee is holding a regular meeting with several possible votes, including approving $44,175 for repaving portions of Bartlett Crescent using Driscoll School Building Project funds, approving Pierce School Project proprietary items, and authorizing Steps to Success, Inc. to serve beer and wine at their 2025 Step Up Celebration. The committee will also discuss draft 2025-2026 school calendars, possibly adding Eid al-Fitr as a new holiday, and receive presentations on climate and sustainability recommendations and a strategic plan update.

• Possible vote to approve $44,175 contract with Cassidy Corporation for repaving portions of Bartlett Crescent using Driscoll School Building Project funds
• Possible vote to approve Pierce School Project proprietary items
• Possible vote to authorize Steps to Success, Inc. to serve beer and wine at Brookline High School, 22 Tappan Street, on May 3, 2025
• Discussion of draft 2025-2026 school calendars, including possible addition of Eid al-Fitr as a Category I holiday
• Presentation of Climate and Sustainability Task Force Recommendations

The School Committee approved specific proprietary materials for the John Pierce School project and authorized the service of beer and wine for a May 2025 fundraiser. Members discussed four draft 2025-2026 school calendars but deferred the final vote to January 2025.

• Approved $44,175 for repaving portions of Bartlett Crescent (9-0)
• Approved Lawrence School 8th Grade trip to New York City (9-0)
• Approved proprietary items for John Pierce School Project (9-0)
• Authorized Steps to Success, Inc. to serve beer and wine at Brookline High School on May 3, 2025 (9-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Brookline Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a virtual public hearing on December 5, 2024. It will continue hearings on two modifications to a comprehensive permit for the Residences of South Brookline development, which propose converting garage and storage space into apartments. The board will also consider several other cases, including requests to convert basements, demolish and rebuild a dwelling, and alter a single-family home.

• Continue Modification #5 to parking and transportation plans for Residences of South Brookline, 10 Thornton Road
• Continue Modification #4 to convert 25 garage spaces and storage to 16 apartments at Asheville Building
• 40 Strathmore Road: extend time to convert basement into a dwelling unit
• 1249 Beacon Street: convert commercial basement to residential unit
• 103 Colbourne Crescent: demolish and rebuild two-family dwelling

The Board granted zoning relief for the demolition and rebuild of a two-family home and approved a special permit for a second-story addition to a single-family residence. Two other cases were continued to future dates.

• Approved demolition and rebuild of two-family dwelling at 103 Colbourne Crescent (unanimous)
• Approved special permit for second-story addition at 246 Clark Road (unanimous)
• Granted time extension for unit conversion at 40 Strathmore Road (unanimous)
• Granted continuance for commercial-to-residential conversion at 1249 Beacon Street (unanimous)
• Continued modifications for Residences of South Brookline to January 20, 2025

Planning Board

The Brookline Planning Board is holding an evening meeting to discuss Chapter 40A cases, including two Zoning Board of Appeals cases. The board will hear public comment on matters not on the agenda and consider the listed cases, which are tentative for a December 19 hearing date.

• 90-100 Bellingham Road (cont.): Demolish two single-family houses, combine lots, and construct a religious house of worship, religious school, and pre-school for the Chabad Center for Jewish Life (Pct. 15)
• 1228 Boylston Street: Alter structure and convert bank to new business (Blinds To Go) (Pct. 15)

The Board recommended approval for the conversion of a former bank into a Blinds To Go business, subject to design review and EV parking requirements. A vote on a proposed religious center at 90-100 Bellingham Road was postponed to allow for further review of the roof deck design.

• Recommended approval of site and architectural plans for 1228 Boylston Street (3-1)
• Postponed vote on 90-100 Bellingham Road religious center project to December 12, 2024 (unanimous)

Trustees of Walnut Hills Cemetery

The Trustees of Walnut Hills Cemetery will meet to approve minutes, sign deeds, and discuss existing and proposed regulations. Key discussions include lot purchase eligibility, veterans' lot eligibility, and monument design standards. The meeting also covers assigning cemetery visits for 2025 and a staff update.

• Approval of September 25, 2024 meeting minutes
• Review of existing visitor and lot regulations
• Discussion of proposed lot purchase eligibility rules
• Discussion of proposed veterans' lot eligibility rules
• Overview of monument design standards

The Trustees approved the September 25, 2024 meeting minutes with amendments. They discussed updating cemetery regulations for visitors, lots, and monument standards, with plans to bring marked-up drafts to the February meeting. No substantive regulatory changes were adopted at this meeting.

• Approved September 25, 2024 meeting minutes with amendments (unanimous)
• Discussed updating visitor and lot regulations; no vote taken
• Discussed monument design standards; no vote taken
• Assigned 2025 cemetery visits to trustees
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

MLK Celebration Committee

The Brookline MLK Celebration Committee is meeting remotely to approve minutes from prior meetings and receive updates on MLK Day discussion. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Approve minutes from November 14 and November 25 meetings
• Updates on MLK Day discussion
• Other or new business
• Next meeting scheduling

The MLK Celebration Committee approved minutes from November 14 and 25, and discussed plans for the MLK Day program, including potential speakers and a February event. No major policy decisions were made; the meeting focused on logistics and outreach.

• Approved minutes from 11/14 and 11/25 (3-0)
• Discussed potential MLK Day speakers, including Sieda Grundy, Paula Austin, and Angela Onwuachi-Willig
• Agreed to pursue February 2nd as primary date for a February event at Hunneman Hall

Committee on Town Organization & Structure

The Committee on Town Organization & Structure is meeting remotely to discuss the Moderator's Committee on Municipal Forms of Government in Massachusetts and the Town Administrator Act, including discussion of the Select Board and Town Administrator. The agenda also includes review of meeting minutes and other business, such as a potential Article 5 Youth Council item. This is a discussion-focused meeting with no votes or contracts listed.

• Report on Moderator's Committee on Municipal Forms of Government in Massachusetts
• Discussion of Town Administrator Act, including Select Board and Town Administrator
• Discussion of Article 5 Youth Council under Other Business
• Review of meeting minutes

The Committee on Town Organization and Structure met on December 4, 2024 and received guidance from Town Counsel on Open Meeting Law (OML) restrictions, particularly whether members may collaborate on drafts or gather information between meetings. Town Counsel advised that working groups count as subcommittees requiring posted public meetings, that fact-gathering is permissible but sharing opinions or deliberating outside public view risks OML violations, and that editing should be done by an outsider or in public. The committee also discussed the Moderator's Committee's review of municipal government forms, with several members raising concerns about perceived bias against Town Meeting and the pace of that committee's work. No motions, votes, or formal decisions were recorded.

Vision Zero Committee

The Vision Zero Committee is meeting to discuss the working draft of its Action Plan and its annual report to the Select Board, with an update from the Toole Design Group. The meeting is primarily for discussion and next steps, with no final decisions listed on the agenda.

• Toole Design Group project update
• Discussion of working draft of Action Plan
• Vision Zero Committee Annual Report to Select Board

Housing Advisory Board

The Brookline Housing Advisory Board is meeting remotely to discuss a potential project at 1280 Boylston St by City Realty, including its inclusionary housing proposal. The board will also hear a presentation from the Affordable Housing Overlay District Study Subcommittee and receive updates on Town Meeting, Walnut-High/CPA funding, and a summary document for the Comprehensive Plan Committee.

• Presentation and discussion of potential project at 1280 Boylston St by City Realty
• Inclusionary housing proposal for 1280 Boylston St
• Affordable Housing Overlay District Study Subcommittee presentation
• Update on Walnut-High/CPA funding of AHT
• Approval of Nov 6 meeting minutes

The board approved the minutes from the November 6, 2024, meeting with one amendment. Members reviewed a mixed-use development proposal for 1280 Boylston St and a preliminary report on the Affordable Housing Overlay District Study.

• Approved November 6, 2024, meeting minutes as amended (7-0)

Bicycle Advisory Committee

The Brookline Bicycle Advisory Committee is holding a hybrid meeting on December 4, 2024, at 7:00 PM. The agenda includes routine business such as a police report and open projects, followed by a discussion of the upcoming South Brookline roadway study and consideration of committee candidates. The meeting is open to the public.

• Discussion of upcoming South Brookline roadway study
• Consideration of committee candidates
• Police report and open projects updates

The committee nominated Mrudula Donepudi, Emily Johnston, and Scott McCullough to the BAC via ranked vote. Members discussed a South Brookline BHS access plan and reviewed a police report noting four crashes.

• Nominated Mrudula Donepudi to the BAC
• Nominated Emily Johnston to the BAC
• Nominated Scott McCullough to the BAC

Brookline Commission for Women

The Brookline Commission for Women is meeting remotely to handle administrative items, hear public comment, and introduce a new commissioner. They will discuss a potential collaboration with Brookline Racial Justice & Equity, begin planning for the Brookline Women of the Year award, and set goals for the new administration.

• Vote to approve minutes from November 2024 meeting
• Public comment period for issues not on the agenda
• Introduction of new commissioner Elizabeth Kernan
• Potential collaboration with Brookline Racial Justice & Equity
• Preliminary planning for Brookline Women of the Year nomination survey

The Brookline Commission for Women held a remote meeting on December 4, 2024. They heard a public comment from Melissa Bridges about online harassment and threats, and discussed potential actions including advocacy, education, and outreach. No formal votes were taken; the November minutes were postponed for review, and the commission agreed to discuss the harassment topic further at the January 8, 2025 meeting.

• Postponed approval of November 2024 minutes to next meeting
• Agreed to discuss online harassment response at January 8, 2025 meeting
• Commissioners to study resources on harassment and anti-hate measures
• Welcomed new commissioner Elizabeth Kernan

Select Board

The Brookline Select Board will hold a continued public hearing and vote on the FY2025 tax classification percentages, and will consider several contracts and change orders, including Driscoll School work and a tenant stabilization program. The agenda also includes executive sessions on litigation, a noise bylaw waiver, and various administrative items.

• Vote on FY2025 tax classification percentages
• Change order 41 with Gilbane for $15,622 for Driscoll School water line removal
• Contract with Cassidy Corp. for $44,175 for Driscoll School repaving
• FY2025 contract with Brookline Community Development Corporation for $128,000 for Tenant Stabilization Program
• Revised Policy Against Discrimination, Harassment and Retaliation

The Select Board adopted the FY2025 tax classification, keeping a 20% residential exemption and setting residential and commercial tax rates. It approved a series of school-related change orders and contracts, several grants, and hiring requests, and set the 2025 Annual Town Election for May 6. Two items were held: a $128,000 tenant stabilization contract and a revised discrimination/harassment policy; a police immigration enforcement order was deferred.

• Adopted residential tax factor of .923966 (CIP factor 1.749); residential rate $10.04, commercial $16.86 (5-0)
• Adopted 20% residential exemption for FY2025, same as last year (5-0)
• Approved change order 41 with Gilbane, $15,622, Driscoll School water line/sludge/pole work (5-0)
• Approved change order 42 with Gilbane, $3,022 credit, Driscoll School (5-0)
• Approved $44,175 contract with Cassidy Corp. for repaving by Driscoll School (5-0)
• Approved change order 35 with William Rawn Associates, $9,997, BHS 3rd floor renovation closeout (5-0)
• Approved change order 12 with Miller Dyer Spears, $8,531.60, Pierce School site survey (5-0)
• Approved change order 1 with A&D Services, $6,550.94, Newbury College temp basketball court for Pierce relocation (5-0)

Planning Board

The Brookline Planning Board is holding a virtual evening meeting to discuss a preapplication for a Major Impact Project at 40 Kent Street/40 Webster Place. The proposal is for a 6-story residential building with 50 units, 24 parking spaces, and ground-floor commercial space. The board will receive input from its Design Advisory Team (DAT) on this preapplication.

• Preapplication for Major Impact Project at 40 Kent Street/40 Webster Place
• 6-story residential building with 50 units
• 24 parking spaces
• Ground floor commercial space
• Design Advisory Team (DAT) meeting on the preapplication

The Planning Board held a design review for a proposed development at 40 Kent/Webster, where the applicant presented a plan for 69 smaller units instead of the previously shown 50 larger ones. Board members raised concerns about massing, shadow impacts, and streetscape, and directed the developer to prepare alternative sketches, including options with no parking and no commercial space. No formal vote was taken; the item remains under review.

• Directed developer to provide sketch of baseline zoning project with both historic buildings demolished
• Directed developer to provide sketch of PBI project with one historic building saved and massing flipped away from T-5 district
• Requested Building Commissioner confirmation on whether two separate buildings are allowed on one lot in G district

Library Trustees

The Brookline Library Trustees' Development Committee is meeting to continue discussing and preparing a proposal or policy on ongoing trustee training and education, prioritizing topics under trustee duties and responsibilities. The meeting is largely procedural, focused on this ongoing recommendation and any updates to the new trustee orientation plan.

• Continue discussion of proposal/policy on ongoing trustee training and education
• Review of board recommendation 2 on prioritizing trustee training topics
• Updates on Outstanding New Trustee Written Orientation Plan

Brookline Commission on Disability

The Brookline Commission on Disability is meeting on Zoom for a routine annual session. The agenda is largely informational and procedural: it covers the commission's history, membership, mission, a year-in-review, and a look ahead. Public comment is limited to three minutes.

• Public comment period with 3-minute limit
• Discussion of BCOD history and membership
• Year in Review and Looking Ahead discussion

The BCOD subcommittee met to plan a presentation on the commission's history, members, and goals. They agreed on content, including a focus on visible vs. invisible disabilities and a 'fully accessible Brookline' goal. Henry Winkelman will create graphics, and the chair will compile notes by Dec. 13. A follow-up meeting is set for Dec. 18 to finalize content.

• Agreed to include BCOD history since 1986 in presentation
• Decided to highlight visible vs. invisible disabilities
• Assigned Henry Winkelman to create graphics for slides
• Set Dec. 18 follow-up meeting to finalize presentation
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Economic Development Advisory Board

The Brookline Economic Development Advisory Board is meeting to approve minutes, debrief the Select Board's annual report and Chestnut Hill Commercial Area Study presentation, recap Town Meeting, and review a Commercial Area Vibrancy Report. The board will also receive updates on several projects, including the Chestnut Hill study, Centre Street Lot, outdoor dining grant, and Coolidge Corner parking study.

• Approval of November 4, 2024 meeting minutes
• Debrief on Select Board Annual Report and Chestnut Hill Commercial Area Study presentation
• Commercial Area Vibrancy Report discussion
• Updates on Chestnut Hill Commercial Area Study and Ad Hoc Subcommittee
• Updates on Centre Street Lot, Outdoor Dining Grant, and Coolidge Corner Parking Study

The Economic Development Advisory Board voted 7-0-1 to approve its November 4, 2024 minutes, contingent on clarifying where parking spaces removed by the Washington Street Complete Streets project are located. The board received a recap of Fall Town Meeting warrant articles, including passage of an ADU bylaw amendment (238-1), a tree preservation bylaw (189-39), and Harvard Street zoning changes (237-0), while a signage bylaw failed (61-172). Staff presented the draft 2024 Commercial Area Vibrancy Report, which found the vacancy rate fell to 9.06% from a 2021 peak of 12.5%, and gave updates on the Chestnut Hill Commercial Area Study, Centre Street Lot project, outdoor dining grants, and parking and bus studies. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Approved November 4, 2024 meeting minutes, contingent on clarifying location of parking spaces removed by Washington Street Complete Streets project (7-0-1)
• Fall Town Meeting Article 7 (2.5-story height limit in S, SC, T districts) referred to Comprehensive Planning Steering Committee (124-122)
• Fall Town Meeting Article 8 (minimum lot size for single- to two-family conversions in T and SC districts) passed (149-92)
• Fall Town Meeting Article 9 (third unit in two-family T districts) referred to Comprehensive Planning Steering Committee (130-116)
• Fall Town Meeting Article 10 (Harvard Street Zoning Amendments) passed (237-0); Article 11 (Planning Board flexibility) failed to reach two-thirds threshold (138-98)
• Fall Town Meeting Article 13 (signage bylaw updates) failed (61-172)
• Fall Town Meeting Article 14 (building spacing in M-1.0 districts) passed (157-74)
• Fall Town Meeting Article 15 (ADU bylaw amendment aligning with State Affordable Homes Act) passed (238-1); Article 16 (tree preservation bylaw) passed (189-39)

Affordable Housing Overlay District Study Subcommittee

The Affordable Housing Overlay District Study Subcommittee of the Housing Advisory Board is meeting remotely to review and comment on the final RKG report (Brookline Report 10.31.24) on the overlay district. They will also discuss implementation ideas, prepare a report for the HAB meeting on Dec. 4, and set future meeting schedules. Public comments are included.

• Review of final RKG report (Brookline Report 10.31.24)
• Open discussion of implementation ideas
• Report to HAB meeting on Dec. 4, 2024
• Public comments

Library Trustees

The Brookline Library Trustees are meeting virtually to receive committee updates and discuss old and new business. The agenda is brief and contains no specific action items or detailed proposals.

• Committee updates
• Old and new business

MLK Celebration Committee

The Brookline MLK Celebration Committee is meeting remotely to approve minutes from the previous meeting and continue planning for MLK Day 2025. The agenda includes discussion of the 2025 celebration and any new business.

• Approve minutes from 11/14/24
• MLK Day 2025 discussion and planning

The committee agreed to collaborate with Ken Liss to share the story of Robert W. Carter, a Brookline resident who wrote on civil rights. Planning for MLK Day 2025 is ongoing, including speaker outreach and poster revisions. Minutes from the November 14 meeting were not reviewed or voted upon.

• Agreed to co-sponsor and collaborate on Robert W. Carter project
• Tabled vote on November 14 minutes

Retirement Board

The Brookline Retirement Board is holding a virtual public meeting to discuss routine administrative matters, including updates on the PRIM investment, ADR, staffing, legal issues, payroll codes, and a PERAC audit. The board will also vote to approve prior meeting minutes, pension payroll, refunds, transfers, and expenses. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major policy decisions or public hearings listed.

• Review of October PRIM (Pension Reserves Investment Management) update
• Review of PERAC (Public Employee Retirement Administration Commission) audit update
• Approval of prior month's minutes, pension payroll, refunds, transfers, and expenses
• Review of updated payroll codes
• Legal update from T. Gibson

School Committee

The Brookline School Committee's Curriculum Subcommittee is meeting to approve prior minutes, hear recommendations from the Climate and Sustainability Task Force, and present the three final K-8 literacy curriculum program options aligned with the Science of Reading. An open house will follow for community members to review the programs and offer feedback. The meeting is in-person at Brookline Town Hall.

• Approval of minutes from October 29, 2024 meeting
• Presentation of recommendations from Climate and Sustainability Task Force Education & Engagement Work Group
• Overview of three final literacy curriculum program options for K-8
• Open house to review literacy curriculum programs and provide feedback

The Curriculum Subcommittee approved the minutes of its October 29, 2024 meeting. It received a presentation of recommendations from the Climate and Sustainability Task Force's Education & Engagement Work Group, which proposed four initiatives: investing in student competencies, investing in educators, outdoor learning for all students, and promoting student engagement. The subcommittee also received an update on the district's literacy curriculum adoption process, with three programs (ARC Core, EL Education, and Fish Tank Learning) selected for continued review. No final decisions were made on these items.

• Approved minutes of October 29, 2024 meeting (3-0-1)
• Received presentation of Climate and Sustainability Task Force recommendations (no vote)
• Received update on literacy curriculum adoption; three programs advanced for review (no vote)

Library Trustees

The Brookline Library Trustees are meeting virtually to discuss and recommend an interim Library Director. The agenda includes comments from the chair and assistant director, followed by board discussion and a recommendation.

• Interim Library Director recommendation
• Comments from Assistant Library Director
• Board discussion and recommendation

Police Commissioners Advisory Committee

The Brookline Police Commissioners Advisory Committee is holding a hybrid meeting to approve prior minutes, hear public comment, and receive a monthly civilian feedback report. The committee will vote to dissolve all outstanding working groups covering juvenile operations, data, and complaint procedure assessment, and will vote on co-secretaries and future topics.

• Vote to dissolve working groups on juvenile operations, data, and bi-annual complaint procedure assessment
• Monthly Civilian Feedback Report
• Discussion of new Town Policies regarding Public Meetings
• Vote for Co-Secretaries
• Public comment with 3-minute limit, via email to [email protected]

The Police Commissioners Advisory Committee voted unanimously to dissolve all outstanding working groups on juvenile operations, data, and bi-annual assessment of complaint procedure, following new town policies that prohibit subcommittees with more than one person due to open meeting law requirements. The committee also approved the August 19, 2024 minutes (6-0-1), appointed co-secretaries, and discussed future topics including immigration policy.

• Dissolved all outstanding working groups (juvenile operations, data, bi-annual assessment of complaint procedure) (7-0)
• Approved minutes from August 19, 2024 meeting (6-0-1)
• Appointed Scott Ananian and Joe Figler as co-secretaries (7-0)
• Volunteered coordinators for topics: Ron Wilkinson for data and bi-annual assessment, Kimberley Richardson for juvenile operations
• Adjourned meeting (7-0)

Library Trustees

The Brookline Library Trustees Advocacy Committee is meeting virtually to discuss advocating for the library during a time of transition and the upcoming budget. The agenda contains only these two discussion topics, with no specific proposals or votes listed.

• Discussion: Advocacy for the Library in a time of transition
• Discussion: The upcoming budget

Brookline Commission on Disability

The Brookline Commission on Disability is meeting to discuss the goals, delivery methods, and content of an upcoming presentation. The agenda includes public comment and planning for the presentation, with no votes or decisions listed.

• Discuss goals and objectives of a presentation (15 min)
• Discuss potential presentation delivery methods (10 min)
• Discuss presentation content and organization (20 min)
• Public comment with 3-minute limit
• Set date for next meeting

The Brookline Commission on Disability met on November 21, 2024 with three members present. The commission discussed planning for a presentation to the Select Board, which the Chair said has been pushed to January 7, 2025. Members agreed to divide review of past minutes among themselves and to create slides covering the commission's history, current members, definition of disability, accomplishments, and 2025 goals. The only formal vote was to adjourn, which passed 3-0; the next meeting is scheduled for December 4, 2024.

• Adjourned meeting (3-0, no abstentions)
• Agreed to create slides covering BCOD history, current members, definition of disability, accomplishments, and 2025 goals
• Assigned minutes review: Jim Lee (Jan-Apr), Rob Heist (May-Aug), Henry Winkelman (Sep-Nov)
• Scheduled next meeting for December 4, 2024, 10:00 AM-12:00 PM to finalize presentation content

Board of Assessors

The Brookline Board of Assessors is meeting to handle routine administrative items such as approving minutes, reviewing correspondence, and signing warrants. They will also take action on abatement applications, ATB case settlements, and statutory exemptions if any are presented. The most significant item is the FY2025 Tax Classification Hearing with the Select Board, which determines the tax rate for the coming fiscal year.

• FY2025 Tax Classification Hearing with the Select Board
• 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

The Board of Assessors approved the September 18, 2024 meeting minutes and signed the calendar 2024 motor vehicle commitment for $128,997.91. They reviewed FY2025 tax classification presentation materials and discussed tax rate options, the residential factor, residential exemption, means-tested exemption, and valuation modeling. Later, they presented the tax rate options to the Select Board at a classification hearing. No final decisions were made on tax rates or exemptions.

• Approved September 18, 2024 meeting minutes
• Signed 2024 motor vehicle commitment for $128,997.91

Select Board

The Brookline Select Board is holding a special meeting to discuss and vote on several administrative and financial items, including a $1,032,298 contract for roof chiller/HVAC replacement at the Senior Center, a $2,000 budget transfer, and the final slate of ARPA funding allocations. They will also hold a public hearing on tax classification for FY2025, with the vote scheduled for December 3rd. The agenda includes routine items like meeting minutes and calendar review.

• Contract with Enterprise Equipment Co. for $1,032,298 to replace Roof Chiller/HVAC at the Senior Center
• Appropriation transfer of $2,000 from Professional Dues to Supplies
• Authorization to file cy pres complaint to modify Abbie Deane Scholarship eligibility
• Approval of final ARPA funding allocations
• Public hearing on tax classification percentages for FY2025

The Select Board approved a contract for HVAC replacement at the Senior Center and finalized the allocation of ARPA funding. The board also held a public hearing on FY2025 tax classifications, with a final vote scheduled for December 3.

• Approved $1,032,298.00 contract with Enterprise Equipment Co. for Senior Center Roof Chiller/HVAC (4-0)
• Approved final ARPA funding allocations totaling $667,400.00 (5-0)
• Authorized Town Counsel to file cy pres complaint to modify Abbie Deane Scholarship eligibility (4-0)
• Approved $2,000 appropriation transfer from Professional Dues to Supplies (4-0)
• Approved November 12, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Kept FY2025 tax classification public hearing open until December 3

Pierce School Building Committee

The Pierce School Building Committee is meeting to review construction, schedule, and budget updates from Consigli, as well as design updates including the release of the 100% CD package and an EIR filing. The committee will also discuss a primer on MSBA reporting versus typical budget reporting. This is a working meeting with updates and approvals, not a final decision-making session.

• Construction updates from Consigli (schedule and budget)
• 100% CD package released
• EIR filing
• Garage study update
• Budget primer for MSBA reporting vs LF typical budget

The Pierce School Building Committee met on November 21, 2024, and approved the minutes of four prior meetings (July 18, August 22, September 26, and October 15). The committee received updates indicating the project is on schedule: abatement in the 1974 building is roughly 77% complete, building takedown is planned to begin shortly with a machine mobilizing on November 25, and 100% bid documents were released on November 11 with trade bids due December 19. The committee did not vote on any new substantive items; the only formal action was approval of past meeting minutes.

• Approved minutes of July 18, August 22, September 26, and October 15 meetings
• No other substantive decisions or votes were recorded

Library Trustees

The Brookline Board of Library Trustees is convening for a virtual meeting to discuss the goals of its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) committee with department heads, and to align the library's CDIECR (likely a related committee or initiative). The agenda is brief and contains no votes or public hearings.

• Discussion of DEI committee goals with department heads
• Brookline Library CDIECR alignment

Zero Emissions Advisory Board

The Zero Emissions Advisory Board is meeting to approve minutes, hear public comment, receive updates from the chair and the Sustainability and Natural Resources Division, and continue discussing its working groups. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major decisions or proposals listed.

• Approval of November 6, 2024 meeting minutes
• Public comment period
• Chair update
• Sustainability and Natural Resources Division update
• Continued discussion of ZEAB working groups

Planning Board

The Brookline Planning Board is holding a public meeting that includes a pre-application site visit for a proposed six-story building at 40 Kent Street/40 Webster Place. The building would have 50 dwelling units, 24 parking spaces, and ground-floor commercial space. The visit is for the board and Design Advisory Team to observe conditions and ask the architect questions; the public is invited to attend.

• Pre-application site visit for 40 Kent/40 Webster Place
• Proposed six-story building with 50 dwelling units
• 24 parking spaces and ground-floor commercial space
• Public invited to attend and ask questions as time permits

The Design Advisory Team conducted a public site visit for the proposed building at 40 Kent Street-40 Webster Place. The applicant's team presented plans and led a tour, but no deliberations or decisions were made during the visit.

• Held public site visit for 40 Kent Street-40 Webster Place project

Library Trustees

The Brookline Library Trustees Executive Committee is meeting in person to discuss committee updates and the Library Director transition. The agenda is mostly procedural, with no specific votes, contracts, or dollar amounts listed.

• Library Director transition discussion
• Committee updates

Select Board

The Brookline Select Board is meeting to consider a range of items, including accepting a $114,000 energy rebate, approving a liquor license transfer and other business licenses, and reviewing warrant articles for the upcoming Special Town Meeting. The board will also discuss modifying the Abbie Deane Scholarship and making appointments to town committees.

• Accept $114,000 Eversource rebate for energy conservation at Driscoll School
• Approve Eversource underground conduit on Beacon Street from Powell to Carlton Street
• Transfer All Alcoholic Package Store License to Moksh Liquor, Inc. at 1050 Beacon Street
• Grant Common Victualler and Entertainment licenses to Junbi Matcha & Tea at 190 Washington Street
• Reconsider zoning warrant articles on height limits and Affordable Homes Act compliance

The Select Board voted 3-2 to refer Warrant Article 7, which would restrict building heights in certain districts, to the Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee for further review. The board also voted unanimously to approve revisions to Article 7 and to reconsider both Articles 7 and 15. Several licenses and contracts were approved, including a $114,000 energy rebate and a liquor license transfer.

• Approved $114,000 Eversource energy rebate for Driscoll School (5-0)
• Approved Eversource underground conduit on Beacon Street (5-0)
• Approved liquor license transfer to Moksh Liquor at 1050 Beacon Street (5-0)
• Approved Common Victualler and entertainment licenses for Junbi Matcha & Tea (5-0)
• Approved extended hours for Jumbo Seafood (5-0)
• Approved temporary wine/malt license for Hellenic College concert (5-0)
• Voted to reconsider Article 7 (5-0)
• Voted 3-2 to refer Article 7 to Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee

Conservation Commission

The Brookline Conservation Commission is meeting to continue a public hearing on drainage improvements at the golf course located at 1281 W Roxbury Pkwy. The agenda also includes staff updates on projects, the Open Space & Recreation Plan, and a discussion of rodent control and wildlife related to Warrant Article 18.

• Continued public hearing for 1281 W Roxbury Pkwy: Golf Course Drainage Improvements
• Discussion of Warrant Article 18 on rodent control and wildlife
• Staff updates on project updates, Open Space & Recreation Plan, and 2025 meeting schedule
• Review of Conservation Commission Meeting Minutes from 10.15.24

Advisory Committee

The Brookline Advisory Committee will discuss and possibly vote on a resolution supporting a permanent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, and may review and amend previous votes on several warrant articles, including zoning changes and a nuclear weapons bidder disqualification petition. They will also consider an appropriation transfer request for the Fire Department.

• WA 20: Resolution supporting a permanent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas
• WA 17: Petition to disqualify bidders involved in nuclear weapons design, manufacturing, or maintenance
• WA 7: Zoning amendment to restrict height to 2.5 stories in select S, SC, and T districts
• WA 15: Amend Use 51B to comply with state Affordable Homes Act
• Appropriation transfer request for Fire Department

The Advisory Committee voted on several warrant articles and an appropriation transfer. It recommended favorable action on the Select Board versions of WA 7 (zoning height limits), WA 15 (Affordable Homes Act compliance), and WA 12 (outdoor lighting standards), and on a $26,190 Fire Department appropriation transfer. It voted No Recommendation on WA 20, and there was no motion to reconsider WA 17.

• Recommended favorable action on Select Board version of WA 7 (zoning height limits) (20-0, 3 abstentions)
• Recommended favorable action on Select Board version of WA 15 (Affordable Homes Act compliance) (16-1, 1 abstention)
• Recommended favorable action on Select Board version of WA 12 (outdoor lighting standards) (19-0, 3 abstentions)
• Recommended favorable action on $26,190 Fire Department appropriation transfer (18-0)
• Voted No Recommendation on WA 20 (11-8, no abstentions)
• No motion to reconsider previous votes on WA 17

Library Trustees

The Brookline Library Trustees' Staff Appreciation Committee is meeting virtually to discuss the budget and timeline for staff appreciation efforts and to brainstorm ideas. This is a planning session, not a final decision-making meeting.

• Discuss budget and timeline for staff appreciation
• Brainstorm staff appreciation ideas

Moderator's Committee on Forms of Government

The Moderator's Committee on Forms of Government is meeting to discuss research reports on mayors, city councils, and select boards, as well as comparing legislatures and economic development. They will also plan spring scheduling, publishing work on the town website, and other housekeeping. Public participation is scheduled if time permits.

• Research report on 'Mayors, City Councils, and Select Boards'
• Research report on 'Comparing Legislatures and Economic Development'
• Scheduling for spring and publishing work on town website
• Public participation (time permitting)

The committee heard reports comparing the executive and legislative branches of Arlington, Cambridge, Newton, and Wellesley. Members discussed economic development and the impact of governmental structures on leadership. No formal votes were recorded.

• Decided not to meet on December 11th
• Determined final papers for Town Meeting will carry individual author names
• Established a 'Working Papers' folder for the compendium of reports

Advisory Council of Public Health

The Brookline Advisory Council of Public Health is holding a public hearing to discuss racism and public health, including a process summary and data presentation. The council will also receive updates on Warrant Articles 9 and 18, review the 2025 meeting schedule, and hear director's reports. Public comment is invited.

• Public hearing on racism and public health with data presentation
• Update on Warrant Article 9 and Warrant Article 18 amendment
• Approval of minutes from October 21 and October 28, 2024
• Review of 2025 meeting schedule
• Director's and division reports

The Advisory Council of Public Health endorsed Warrant Article 9 and drafted an amendment to Warrant Article 18, which would limit SGAR access, though the Select Board voted 5-0 against the recommendation and the Advisory Committee ruled 23-2 against it. The council deferred approval of the October 21 minutes pending updates, but approved the October 28 minutes unanimously. They also discussed racism as a public health crisis, reviewed the Brookline Racial Equity Data Report, and adjusted the 2025 meeting schedule.

• Endorsed Warrant Article 9 for Town Meeting
• Drafted amendment to Warrant Article 18 on SGAR limits
• Deferred approval of October 21 minutes to next meeting
• Approved October 28 meeting minutes unanimously
• Scheduled 2025 meetings on second Monday of month for January and February

School Committee

The Policy Review Subcommittee will consider a new PSB Mobile Device Policy, potentially voting on it. They will also review sections of the PSB Policy Manual and approve minutes from previous meetings.

• Review and possible vote on draft Mobile Device Policy
• Review of PSB Policy Manual Sections J 1-2, 4-5 and 9-10
• Approval of minutes from September 23 and October 21 meetings
• Public comment period

The Policy Review Subcommittee discussed a draft district-wide Personal Electronic Device (PED) policy that would require K-8 students to keep devices 'off and away' during the school day and prohibit high school students from using them in classrooms. No vote was taken on the policy; members agreed to remove a broad note about consequences from the high school section and to seek feedback from building leaders and student councils. The subcommittee also voted unanimously to approve the minutes from its September 23 and October 21 meetings.

• Approved minutes of September 23 and October 21, 2024 meetings (3-0)
• Discussed draft PED policy; no vote taken
• Agreed to strike broad 'inappropriate use' note from BHS section
• Decided each K-8 school may choose how to implement 'off and away' (e.g., lockers, pouches)
• Will send revised draft to building leaders and student councils for feedback

Chestnut Hill Commercial Area Study Community Advisory Group

The Chestnut Hill Commercial Area Study Community Advisory Group is holding a staff-led neighborhood meeting to gather community input and discuss the commercial area study. The agenda includes neighborhood comments, a discussion recap, and a priorities poll to help guide the study.

• Neighborhood comments and discussion
• Discussion recap of previous meetings
• Priorities poll to gather community input

Community Preservation Act Committee

The Community Preservation Act Committee is meeting to hear presentations from six applicants seeking Community Preservation Act funding, including restoration projects and trail enhancements. The committee will also review full grant applications, discuss the process moving forward, and receive a tutorial on the new website. The agenda is primarily procedural, with decisions expected at a later date.

• Temple Ohabei Shalom Dome Restoration Project
• Restoration of Historic Chemical Firehouse
• Phase I Archives Pilot Program & Action Plan
• Brookline Golf Course Clubhouse Window Restoration
• Putterham Woods Trail Enhancement – Trail Heads

The Community Preservation Act Committee approved the minutes of its 10-21-24 meeting and heard presentations from six applicants seeking Community Preservation Act funds, including $800,000 for the Temple Ohabei Shalom dome and $467,000 for the Brookline Arts Center firehouse. Staff reported 19 full applications were received, with a total ask of approximately $5.2 million, about $1.3 million more than proposed in the eligibility determinations. No funding decisions were made; the committee will review applications in working groups and will not hold its regular December meeting.

• Approved minutes of the 10-21-24 meeting (6-0)
• Heard request of $800,000 for Temple Ohabei Shalom dome and roof restoration
• Heard request of $467,000 for Brookline Arts Center historic firehouse restoration at 86 Monmouth Street
• Heard proposal for Phase I Archives Pilot Program & Action Plan with Planning and Community Development and Brookline Historical Society
• Heard proposal to restore seven windows at Brookline Golf Course Clubhouse
• Heard proposal for two trail heads, signage, benches and fencing at Putterham Woods
• Heard proposal for a composting restroom at Putterham Golf Course
• Adjourned (all in favor)

Open Space & Recreation Plan Committee

The Open Space & Recreation Plan Committee is meeting to review and discuss the Needs Analysis Summary and the 2018 Goals & Objectives, as part of updating the town's Open Space and Recreation Plan. The agenda also includes subcommittee updates and a review of the updated Community Vision section. This is a working session focused on planning, not final decisions.

• Review of Updated Section 6: Community Vision
• Review and Discussion of Needs Analysis Summary
• Review and Discussion of 2018 Goals & Objectives
• Subcommittee updates on Open Space Protection & Zoning, Greenways & Transportation, Infrastructure & Resource Protection, Community Vision

The Open Space & Recreation Plan Committee met on November 18, 2024, to review subcommittee updates, a draft Community Vision, and a Needs Analysis Summary. No formal votes were taken on these items; the committee deferred approval of the September minutes to the next meeting and scheduled the next full meeting for February 10, 2025. The meeting was procedural and discussion-focused, with no substantive decisions made.

• Deferred approval of September 23, 2024 minutes to next meeting
• Approved sending Community Vision draft to full committee for review
• Scheduled next full committee meeting for February 10, 2025

Indigenous Peoples Celebration Committee

The Indigenous People Celebration Committee is meeting remotely to approve minutes from October 11, 2024, discuss feedback and wrap-up for Indigenous Peoples Day 2024, and talk about next projects. The agenda is mostly procedural and forward-looking, with no major decisions or financial items listed.

• Approve minutes from Oct 11, 2024
• Feedback and wrap-up for IPD 2024
• Discussion of next projects

The committee approved the minutes from the October 11 meeting. Members discussed feedback for the 2024 Indigenous Peoples Day event and proposed future book club titles.

• Approved October 11, 2024 minutes (5-0)
• Approved request for a student volunteer to assist the Chair

Committee on Town Organization & Structure

The Brookline Committee on Town Organization & Structure is meeting remotely to discuss the Town Administrator Act, other business and minutes, and to consider a recommendation on Warrant Article 5, which proposes creating a Brookline Youth Council. The agenda is largely procedural, with the Youth Council recommendation being the most substantive item.

• Discussion of the Town Administrator Act
• CTOS recommendation on Warrant Article 5: Creation of a Brookline Youth Council
• Other business and approval of minutes

The Committee on Town Organization & Structure unanimously approved the minutes of its October 23, 2024 meeting. It also approved its report on Warrant Article 5, which proposed a new Town By-Law establishing a Brookline Youth Council; the Committee had previously voted 'no action' on the article, as had the Select Board and Advisory Committee. The report will be distributed to Town Meeting Members. The Committee also discussed the Town Administrator Act, with members planning to focus on Select Board and town administrator developments.

• Approved minutes of October 23, 2024 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved report on Warrant Article 5 (Youth Council) with 'no action' recommendation

School Committee

The Brookline School Committee will hold a regular meeting with administrative business, including consent agenda items for school construction change orders and a draft 2025-2026 school calendar. They will also receive reports on attendance, enrollment, and finances, and consider authorizing a legal action to modify a scholarship's eligibility. The meeting includes public comment and subcommittee reports.

• Consent agenda: Driscoll School change order No. 43 ($5,496.00), Pierce School contract amendment No. 13 ($155,343.50) and change order ($945.17), Brookline High School change order No. 13 ($107,965.00 credit)
• Draft 2025-2026 school district calendar (docketed for possible vote on Dec 5)
• Discussion and possible vote to authorize cy pres complaint to modify Abbie W. Deane Scholarship eligibility
• Presentations: attendance report, October 1, 2024 enrollment report, FY 2025 1st quarter financial report
• Proposed executive session on Open Meeting Law complaint and minutes approval

The School Committee voted to authorize Town Counsel to file a court petition to broaden eligibility for the Abbie Deane Scholarship fund, which is currently restricted to students attending Radcliffe or Simmons College. The committee also unanimously approved a consent agenda containing school construction change orders, gift acceptances, and past meeting records. Additionally, the committee voted to enter executive session to review a response to an Open Meeting Law complaint.

• Approved Action 24-115 to authorize Town Counsel to file a cy pres complaint for Abbie Deane Scholarship (6-0-1)
• Approved Action 24-114 consent agenda unanimously (7-0-0)
• Approved Driscoll School Change Order No. 43 for $5,496.00
• Approved Pierce School Contract Amendment No. 13 for $155,343.50
• Approved Pierce School Change Order for $945.17
• Approved Brookline High School Change Order No. 13 for $107,965.00 credit
• Approved Action 24-116 to enter Executive Session unanimously (7-0-0)

Commission for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Community Relations

The Brookline Commission for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Community Relations will hear presentations on two warrant articles: one for a veteran property tax work-off abatement and another for a resolution recognizing Jewish American Heritage Month. After public comment, the commission may vote on each article. The meeting is remote and includes roll call and a land acknowledgement.

• Presentation and possible vote on Warrant Article 4: Veteran Property Tax Work-Off Abatement
• Presentation and possible vote on Warrant Article 19: Resolution for Jewish American Heritage Month
• Public comment periods for both warrant articles
• Remote meeting via Zoom with registration link

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Brookline Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a virtual public hearing on two comprehensive permit matters and several zoning appeals. The board will consider extending the approval for a 25-unit rental project at 445 Harvard Street and a modification to the Residences of South Brookline comprehensive permit. It will also hear appeals for home alterations and a commercial use change, and vote on authorizing the chair to approve minutes.

• Extension request for ZBA Decision 2019-0060 for 25-unit multifamily rental at 445 Harvard Street until March 29, 2027
• Modification #5 to Residences of South Brookline comprehensive permit regarding parking management and transportation access plans
• Appeal to alter single-family dwelling at 73 Beverly Road, including adding a swimming pool
• Appeal for second-story addition at 268 Beverly Road
• Appeal to convert former bank at 1341 Beacon Street to market use

The Brookline Zoning Board of Appeals approved three items: a three-year extension for the JFK Place housing project, modifications to the Residences of South Brookline comprehensive permit (deemed substantial), and special permits for home additions at 73 and 268 Beverly Road. The board also granted a special permit to waive the loading zone requirement for a retail conversion at 1341 Beacon Street. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved 3-year extension for JFK Place housing project until March 29, 2027 (unanimous)
• Determined Residences of South Brookline modifications #4 and #5 to be substantial (unanimous)
• Granted special permit for 73 Beverly Road home addition and pool, with no-blasting condition (unanimous)
• Granted special permit for 268 Beverly Road second-story addition, FAR increase to 0.38, and side-yard setback waiver to 6.5 ft (unanimous)
• Granted special permit to waive loading zone requirement for 1341 Beacon Street retail conversion (unanimous)
• Authorized chair to approve hearing minutes via email (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Brookline Planning Board is holding an evening meeting to discuss four tentative Zoning Board of Appeals cases. These include converting a commercial basement to residential, demolishing and rebuilding a two-family home, constructing a single-family home on a new lot, and a larger project to build a religious campus. The board is also taking public comment on matters not on the agenda.

• 1249 Beacon Street: convert existing commercial basement unit to residential unit (12/19, Pct. 17)
• 103-105 Colbourne Crescent (cont.): demolish a two-family and build a new two-family (12/5, Pct. 12)
• 60 Lyman Road: construct single-family dwelling on newly created lot (12/19, Pct. 14)
• 90-100 Bellingham Road: demolish two single-family houses, combine lots, and construct religious house of worship, religious school and childcare center for Chabad Center for Jewish Life (12/19, Pct. 15)

The Board recommended approval for a basement conversion at 1249 Beacon Street, a two-family rebuild at 103-105 Colbourne Crescent, and a new single-family home at 60 Lyman Road. A proposal for a religious center at 90-100 Bellingham Road was continued to December 5th following neighbor concerns.

• Recommended approval of basement-to-residential conversion at 1249 Beacon Street (Unanimous)
• Recommended approval of two-family demolition and rebuild at 103-105 Colbourne Crescent (3-1)
• Recommended approval of single-family construction at 60 Lyman Road (Unanimous)
• Continued Chabad Center for Jewish Life proposal at 90-100 Bellingham Road to Dec. 5

MLK Celebration Committee

The MLK Celebration Committee is meeting remotely to approve minutes from October 30 and discuss updates on MLK Day 2025. The agenda is mostly procedural, with the main substantive item being the MLK Day 2025 discussion.

• Approve minutes from 10/30/24
• Updates on MLK Day 2025 discussion

The committee approved the October 30 minutes unanimously and discussed plans for the MLK Day 2025 event, including potential panelists and themes. No formal decisions were made on the event's scope or panelists; outreach to several candidates is ongoing.

• Approved minutes from 10/30/24 (3-0)

Select Board

The Brookline Select Board is meeting to conduct several licensing hearings, including a public hearing on Eversource's request to install underground conduit on Beacon Street, a transfer and change of location for a liquor license, and applications for new food and entertainment licenses. The board will also vote on approving meeting minutes from September and October.

• Public hearing on Eversource Energy's petition to construct underground conduit on Beacon Street from Powell Street to Carlton Street, with three new manholes.
• Transfer of All Alcoholic Package Store License from Gora Inc to Moksh Liquor Inc, d/b/a The Wine Press, at 1050 Beacon Street, with proposed manager Aaron Mehta.
• Change of location for The Wine Press from 1024 Beacon Street to 1050 Beacon Street.
• New Common Victualler and Entertainment license for Sarang Holdings LLC d/b/a Junbi Matcha & Tea at 190 Washington Street.
• Change of hours for Jumbo Seafood at 1032 Commonwealth Ave, extending closing from 12:00 AM to 1:00 AM.

The Select Board's licensing panel recommended several applications for approval at the board's November 19 miscellaneous agenda, including Eversource's request to install 1,515 feet of underground conduit and three manholes along Beacon Street from Powell Street to Carlton Street. It also recommended transferring the all-alcohol package store license for The Wine Press from Gora Inc. to Moksh Liquor, Inc. at 1050 Beacon Street, along with a change of location, pledge of license/inventory, and alternate manager. The panel recommended a common victualler and entertainment license for Junbi Matcha & Tea at 190 Washington Street and a change of hours for Jumbo Seafood at 1032 Commonwealth Ave. The panel's recommendations are not final board decisions; final action was set for the Select Board's November 19 meeting.

• Approved September 11 and October 16, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Recommended Eversource Beacon Street conduit and manhole grant of location for Select Board approval Nov. 19
• Recommended transfer of all-alcohol package store license from Gora Inc. to Moksh Liquor, Inc. d/b/a The Wine Press at 1050 Beacon Street
• Recommended change of location for The Wine Press from 1024 to 1050 Beacon Street
• Recommended pledge of license/inventory for The Wine Press at 1050 Beacon Street
• Recommended alternate manager Smitesh Patel for The Wine Press
• Recommended common victualler and entertainment license for Junbi Matcha & Tea at 190 Washington Street
• Recommended change of hours for Jumbo Seafood at 1032 Commonwealth Ave. to 11:00AM-1:00AM

Council on Aging

The Brookline Council on Aging is holding a hybrid meeting to review minutes, hear public comment, and receive updates. Guest speaker Tim Davis, Director of Brookline Recreation, will introduce himself and discuss future collaboration. The council will also get reports on the search for a new Council on Aging Director, the Senior Center parking plan, and committee updates.

• Guest speaker: Tim Davis, Director of Brookline Recreation, on vision for future collaboration
• Update on search for Council on Aging Director
• Update on Senior Center parking plan
• Committee reports: Nominating, Springwell, Recreation
• Report from Select Board by John VanScoyoc

The Brookline Council on Aging approved the September 11, 2024 minutes as amended (unanimous). The meeting featured a presentation from Sigalle Reiss on the Community Health Assessment/Improvement Plan, identifying four priorities: financial security, access to services, housing affordability, and mental/behavioral health. No other formal votes were taken.

• Approved September 11, 2024 minutes as amended (unanimous)

Park & Recreation Commission

The Park and Recreation Commission's Monmouth Park Design Review Committee is meeting to review the Phase 2 concept design and budget for Monmouth Park, gather community feedback, and vote on the design. The meeting includes approval of prior minutes and discussion of next steps.

• Approval of October 30, 2024 meeting minutes
• Overview of Monmouth Phase 2 concept design with budget
• Community discussion and feedback session
• Vote by the Design Review Committee on the design

Transportation Board

The Brookline Transportation Board will vote on several parking and loading zone changes, including removing metered spaces on Pearl Street for an MBTA bus-only zone and altering bus parking rules. The board will also discuss roadway management, complete streets, and sidewalk ramp policies. Several consent agenda items involve parking limit and zone adjustments at specific addresses.

• Remove 9 metered parking spaces on Pearl Street for MBTA bus-only tow-away zone
• Change bus parking rules to allow operators to leave buses at designated zones
• Convert passenger loading zone on Williston Road at Torah Academy to school pick-up/drop-off only
• Increase resident overnight parking spaces from 10 to 22 at Fuller Street Lot 8
• Discuss roadway management, complete streets, and sidewalk ramp construction policies

The Brookline Transportation Board held a regular meeting on November 13, 2024, but took no formal votes on substantive items. The board discussed an MBTA request to remove nine metered parking spaces on Pearl Street for bus layover, a proposed regulation change for bus parking zones, a request from Torah Academy for a school pick-up/drop-off zone, and a roadway management policy update. All items were discussion-only, with no motions made. The board approved the consent agenda, which included meeting minutes and several parking-related requests.

• Approved consent agenda including minutes from October 16 and parking changes on Lancaster Terrace, Beacon Street, Addington Road, and Fuller Street Lot 8
• Discussed MBTA request to remove 9 metered spaces on Pearl Street for bus layover; no vote taken
• Discussed altering bus parking regulations to allow operators to leave buses; no vote taken
• Discussed Torah Academy request for a school pick-up/drop-off tow-away zone; no vote taken
• Discussed roadway management and complete streets policy changes; motion excludes sidewalk ramp policy; no vote taken

Open Space & Recreation Plan Committee

The Open Space & Recreation Plan Committee will discuss, edit, and compile the 2025 Needs Analysis, using a worksheet and a supplement from the 2020 Strategic Master Plan. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes and next steps.

• Discussion of 2025 OSRP Needs Analysis
• Review of Needs Analysis Worksheet
• Supplement from 2020 Strategic Master Plan
• Approval of meeting minutes from 10.16.24

The Open Space Protection and Zoning Subcommittee met to review and edit the 2025 Needs Analysis Worksheet, discussing topics like public access to private open space, zoning incentives, green roofs, tree planting, and parks maintenance. They approved the October 16, 2024 meeting minutes unanimously. No final decisions were made on the worksheet content; it will be reviewed by the full committee on November 18, 2024.

• Approved October 16, 2024 subcommittee meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:07 PM (unanimous)

Small Business Development Committee

The Small Business Development Committee is meeting to select artists for 10 murals around Brookline as part of the Brookline Art Makes Community (BAMC) program. The committee will review the walls and choose artists for each mural location, then discuss next steps for the BAMC webpage.

• Artist selection for 10 murals, including 1632 Beacon Street, 21 Andem Place, and 250 Harvard Street
• Review of walls for mural placement
• Discussion of next steps for BAMC webpage

The Brookline Art Makes Community Artist Selection Committee approved artists and alternates for all 10 mural locations, each by a unanimous 5-0 vote. The committee reviewed property owner preferences and ranked voting results before approving each selection. Next steps include contacting artists by November 14, initial designs due December 5, and mural installation beginning spring 2025.

• Approved Kenji Chai for Mural 1 at 1632 Beacon Street (5-0)
• Approved Jason Woodside for Mural 2 at 21 Andem Place (5-0)
• Approved Adam Doyle for Mural 3 at 1654 Beacon Street (5-0)
• Approved Russell Mason for Mural 4 at 250 Harvard Street (5-0)
• Approved Ben Jundanian for Mural 5 at 1349 Beacon Street (5-0)
• Approved Bette Ann Libby/Elaine Shannon for Mural 6 at 242 Washington Street (5-0)
• Approved John Wentz for Mural 7 at 313 Harvard Street (5-0)
• Approved Alex Cook for Mural 8 at 1356 Beacon Street (Alley Wall) (5-0)

Planning Board

The Brookline Planning Board is holding a public hearing on a site plan and design review application from Little Children Schoolhouse to demolish an existing 1-story building and construct a new 4-story daycare at 264 Washington Street. The board will consider revised plans, a technical review report, and draft findings, with possible close of hearing and vote. This meeting was postponed to December 11, 2024.

• Demolition of existing 1-story building and construction of 4-story daycare at 264 Washington Street
• Dover Amendment application (M.G.L. c.40A, sec.3) for daycare use
• Public comment limited to newly entered materials/information
• Possible close of hearing and board vote

The Planning Board continued the hearing for the 264 Washington Street site plan and design review. No deliberations or testimony occurred during this session.

• Continued 264 Washington Street hearing to December 11, 2024

School Committee

The Brookline School Committee's Finance Subcommittee is meeting to discuss and possibly vote on authorizing Town Counsel to file a cy pres complaint to modify the Abbie W. Deane Scholarship eligibility conditions, potentially increasing the number of recipients. The agenda also includes routine items such as approval of minutes, acceptance of gifts, review of the position control report, the FY 2025 first-quarter financial report, and an update on internal controls.

• Possible vote to authorize cy pres complaint to modify Abbie W. Deane Scholarship eligibility
• Acceptance of gifts
• Review of Position Control Report
• FY 2025 1st Quarter Financial Report
• Update on Implementation of Internal Controls

The Finance Subcommittee voted unanimously to recommend that the School Committee authorize Town Counsel to seek court approval to broaden the Abbie Deane Scholarship's eligibility from Radcliffe/Simmons to any college for female BHS graduates. The subcommittee also recommended accepting a $25 gift and reviewed a first-quarter budget report projecting a $1.16 million salary deficit.

• Recommended authorizing cy pres petition to expand Abbie Deane Scholarship eligibility (3-0)
• Recommended accepting $25 gift from Anne Marie Carlson for BHS Queer Student Union (3-0)
• Approved minutes of October 23, 2024 meeting (3-0)

Town / School Partnership Committee

The Town/School Partnership Committee is meeting to discuss the Fiscal Year 2025 and projected Fiscal Year 2026 budgets, as well as potential shared services between the town and schools. The agenda is largely discussion-oriented, with no votes or decisions listed.

• Update and discussion on Fiscal Year 2025 budget
• Projected Fiscal Year 2026 budget discussion
• Discussion on Town-School shared services

The Town/School Partnership Committee discussed the FY26 budget forecast, which projects a $1.3 million deficit that could rise due to solid waste cost increases. The Town plans to propose directing increased sanitation fees solely to sanitation services rather than the Town-School split, and is considering privatizing solid waste pickup. No formal votes or decisions were taken; the meeting was informational.

• No formal votes or decisions taken; budget and shared services discussed

Brookline Commission on Disability

The Brookline Commission on Disability is convening a regular meeting to approve minutes from previous meetings, introduce a new member, and receive updates from liaisons and the ADA Coordinator. No new variances are on the agenda.

• Approval of minutes from September 2024, October 1, 2024 Variance Meeting, and October 2024
• New member introduction
• Updates from Transportation Board, Select Board, PedAC, and ADA Coordinator
• Open Spaces Committee update
• Lives Worth Living showing in Natick

The Brookline Commission on Disability met on November 13, 2024, and approved minutes from its September, October 1 variance, and October meetings, with amendments. No new variances were considered, and no public comment was given. The commission discussed updates on accessibility planning, including a new parking committee and ADA evaluations, but took no substantive action on these items.

• Approved September 2024 minutes as amended (7-0)
• Approved October 1, 2024 variance meeting minutes as amended (4-0, 3 abstentions)
• Approved October 2024 minutes as amended (6-0, 1 abstention)
• Tabled new member introduction (member absent)
• No subcommittee formed for film screening project
• Tabled discussion on monthly column publication options

Small Business Development Committee

The Brookline Small Business Development Committee is meeting to discuss and vote on items including approval of past meeting minutes, a comprehensive plan presentation, and a discussion on Warrant Article 13. The agenda also includes updates on several town projects and programs, such as the Outdoor Dining Program and street studies.

• Vote on approval of October 8, 2024 meeting minutes
• Presentation on Comprehensive Plan by Community Planner Jake Collins
• Discussion on Warrant Article 13 with presentation by Zoning Coordinator Nicole Pare
• Updates on Outdoor Dining Program, Centre Street Lot Study, Coolidge Corner Parking Study, and Washington Street Complete Streets Project

The committee approved the October 8, 2024 draft meeting minutes (7-0-2). Members received updates on the comprehensive plan, a proposed warrant article on sign regulations, and several staff initiatives including outdoor dining fee reductions and parking studies. No other formal votes were taken; the meeting was informational and discussion-focused.

• Approved October 8, 2024 draft meeting minutes (7-0-2)
• Heard update on comprehensive plan; draft vision to be finalized January 2025
• Discussed Warrant Article 13 proposing projecting sign allowance to 3 feet and primary tenant signage above 25 feet via special permit
• Noted businesses can apply for projecting signs retroactively approved after Town Meeting
• Announced reduced outdoor dining permit fees and $5,000 ADA platform grants (total $50,000)
• Scheduled virtual public workshop for Coolidge Corner parking study on November 14, 2024
• Raised concerns about Washington Street Complete Streets project impacts on parking and business operations

Age Friendly Cities Committee

The Age Friendly Cities Committee will meet remotely to review minutes, welcome new members, and hear from guest speaker Tim Davis, Director of Brookline Recreation. The committee will also discuss its FY25 goals and priorities, the Community Health Assessment & Improvement Plan, and the town's Comprehensive Plan, among other items.

• Wendy Drobnyk appointed to three-year term by Select Board on October 29, 2024
• Discussion of FY25 Goals & Priorities Document
• Update on Community Health Assessment & Improvement Plan (CHA-CHIP)
• Pedestrian safety discussion including Washington Street project
• Update on Council on Aging Director position

The Age-Friendly Cities Committee approved the October 8, 2024 meeting minutes (9-0-0) and received updates from the Recreation Department, including new staff and expanded wellness offerings. The committee discussed a state-funded dementia-friendly site checklist project with BU MetroBridge and continued work on 2025 goals, the Community Health Improvement Plan, and pedestrian safety. No major policy decisions were made; the meeting was primarily informational and procedural.

• Approved October 8, 2024 meeting minutes (9-0-0)
• Designated Matt Weiss as note taker
• Designated John Seay, Matt Weiss, and Maria Foster as co-hosts
• Noted Wendy Drobnyk's appointment to the committee by Select Board
• Noted Ginger O'Day as Library liaison to AFCC

Select Board

The Brookline Select Board will hold a regular meeting with several action items, including approving a $1.03 million contract for Senior Center roof chiller/HVAC replacement, authorizing hiring for police and fire departments, and appointing probationary officers. The board will also hold public hearings on resuming School Resource Officers and a marijuana license violation, and consider warrant articles for Special Town Meeting.

• Contract with Enterprise Equipment Co. for $1,032,298 to replace Roof Chiller/HVAC at Senior Center
• Approve $26,190 transfer from Firefighting Equipment to Communications Equipment R&M
• Authorize hiring of 4 firefighters, 1 Fire Lieutenant, Sr. Public Health Inspector, Administrative/Accounting Assistant
• Appoint 8 probationary police officers
• Public hearing on Mission MA, Inc. marijuana license violation (continuance requested)

The Select Board voted 3-1 to request that the School Committee recommend reinstating the School Resource Officer program in high schools and middle schools. The board also approved several administrative items, including hiring authorizations, a fire equipment budget transfer, and a National Grid rebate. A public hearing on a marijuana license violation was postponed at the request of the license holder.

• Voted to request School Committee reinstate SRO program (3-1)
• Approved $26,190 transfer for fire communications equipment
• Approved hiring of 4 firefighters and 1 fire lieutenant
• Approved hiring of Sr. Public Health Inspector and police admin assistant
• Appointed 8 probationary police officers
• Approved $134,850 National Grid heat pump rebate
• Postponed Mission MA marijuana license violation hearing
• Voted to reconsider and amend warrant articles 12, 14, and 16

Building Commission

The Brookline Building Commission is holding its monthly hybrid meeting to review and vote on requisitions, change orders, and proposals for several town capital projects, including Driscoll and Pierce Schools, Brookline High School, fire stations 1 and 4, and the police locker room. The commission will also consider a proposal for roofing and envelope repairs for various town projects.

• Review and vote on Driscoll School requisitions, change orders, stair sealing proposal, Bartletts Way repaving, and solar panel purchase
• Review and vote on Pierce School requisitions, change orders, sprinkler study for town and library garages, and proprietary items list
• Review and vote on Brookline High School tunnel requisitions and Lambrian credit change order for 3rd floor & Quad renovation
• Review and vote on requisitions for Fire Stations 1 & 4 and Police Locker room
• Review and vote on Socotec proposal for roofing and envelope repair for various town projects

Park & Recreation Commission

The Brookline Park and Recreation Commission will meet to approve minutes, hear public comment, and discuss commissioner transitions. They will appoint commissioners to the Ice Rink Building Committee of Seven, discuss outdoor pool follow-up actions, and hear recreation program presentations. A vote is scheduled on the final version of the commission's roles and responsibilities, followed by updates from parks, recreation, and subcommittees.

• Appoint commissioners to the Ice Rink Building Committee of Seven
• Discussion of outdoor pool follow-up actions
• Recreation program presentations: summer camp and environmental education
• Discussion and possible vote on Park and Recreation Commission responsibilities
• Parks and Open Space Division update

The Park and Recreation Commission appointed James Carroll and John Pan to the Ice Rink Building Committee of Seven, which will oversee design and bid documents for rebuilding the outdoor ice rink at Larz Anderson Park, contingent on CPA funding. The Commission also voted to remove a phrase about historical and cultural values from its mission statement and approved the roles and responsibilities with that amendment. Additionally, the Commission approved the October 15, 2024 meeting minutes (6-1) and discussed pool and summer camp programming updates.

• Approved October 15, 2024 meeting minutes (6-1)
• Appointed James Carroll and John Pan to Ice Rink Building Committee of Seven
• Removed phrase under Section B of mission statement (5-1)
• Accepted roles and responsibilities with amendment removing Section B (5-1)

Library Trustees

The Brookline Library Trustees are holding a regular hybrid meeting to discuss routine reports, including the secretary's, treasurer's, and library director's reports, and to consider old and new business. A key item is the process and timeline for the Library Director's evaluation, and the board will enter an executive session to consider complaints against Director Amanda Hirst. The agenda also includes forming an ad hoc committee to hire an outside consultancy.

• Approval of meeting minutes from October 8, 2024
• Statistical and financial presentations from the Library Director
• Discussion of process for Director's evaluation and timeline
• Executive session to consider complaints against Library Director Amanda Hirst
• Ad hoc committee to hire outside consultancy

Preservation Commission

The Brookline Preservation Commission will hold public hearings on certificates of appropriateness for solar panels, porch modifications, gutters, and fire escapes in local historic districts, plus full demolition of two garages. The commission will also consider letters of support for Community Preservation Act projects. The meeting is remote and open to the public.

• 100 High Street: solar array with mechanical equipment (Great Sky Solar)
• 36 Edgehill Road: side entry porch modification (Marne Rizica)
• 195 Babcock Street: gutters and fire escape (Lynn Miczek)
• 102 Dean Road: full demolition of detached garage (Alex Svirsky)
• 70-72 Beaconsfield Road: full demolition of garage (Charu Swamy)

The Commission approved solar installation at 100 High Street and gutter/fire escape installation at 195 Babcock Street. Applications for porch modifications at 36 Edgehill Road and demolition of the 70-72 Beaconsfield Road garage were denied, while the 102 Dean Road garage was found significant.

• Approved solar array installation at 100 High Street (6-0)
• Denied porch modification at 36 Edgehill Road (6-0)
• Denied Certificate of Hardship for 36 Edgehill Road (6-0)
• Approved gutters and fire escape at 195 Babcock Street (6-0)
• Found 102 Dean Road garage significant (6-0)
• Found 70-72 Beaconsfield Road garage not significant (4-2)
• Approved letter of support for Temple Ohabei Shalom dome repairs (6-0)
• Found Preservation Commission & Historical Society records significant (6-0)

Solid Waste Advisory Committee

The Solid Waste Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss updates on zero waste framework initiatives, an introduction to the Code Enforcement Program Manager position, and a DPW report. The agenda also includes approval of previous meeting minutes and a public comment period.

• Zero Waste Framework Initiatives progress update presentation
• Code Enforcement Program Manager position overview and introduction
• DPW report on department updates
• Approval of October 4, 2024 meeting minutes
• Public comment period for issues not on the agenda

The Solid Waste Advisory Committee met and received updates on the Town's Zero Waste Framework initiatives, including completed hauler licensing, school composting, and a new food waste drop-off pilot. No formal votes or decisions were made; the October minutes review was postponed to December. The meeting was informational, with staff reports and committee discussion only.

• Postponed approval of October 4, 2024 minutes to December 2024
• No other formal decisions or votes recorded

Advisory Committee

The Brookline Advisory Committee will hold a public meeting to discuss and possibly vote on a zoning by-law amendment (WA 15) to comply with state Affordable Homes Act requirements, and to review and amend previous votes on warrant articles, including restrictions on rodenticides (WA 18) and expansion of the Tree Preservation By-Law (WA 16). Public comment is limited to 5 minutes.

• WA 15: Amend Use 51B and Section 4.05 of the Town's Zoning By-Law to comply with state Affordable Homes Act
• WA 18: Petition for a special act to allow restriction of rodenticides
• WA 16: Amend Article 8.41 to expand Tree Preservation By-Law requirements

The Advisory Committee voted 21-1 to recommend favorable action on an amended substitute motion for Warrant Article 15, which updates the Town's zoning bylaw to comply with the state Affordable Homes Act regarding accessory dwelling units (ADUs). The committee also voted 16-3 to recommend the Select Board's revised version of Warrant Article 16, expanding the Tree Preservation By-Law to cover construction-related excavation. A motion to replace Warrant Article 18 (rodenticide home rule petition) with a resolution failed 3-17.

• Recommended favorable action on amended Benka-Blood substitute motion for WA 15 (ADU zoning) (21-1)
• Adopted amendment to WA 15 setting rear yard setback at 15 feet in specified districts (15-6, 1 abstention)
• Recommended favorable action on Select Board version of WA 16 (Tree Preservation By-Law expansion) (16-3, 2 abstentions)
• Rejected motion to replace WA 18 (rodenticide home rule petition) with a resolution (3-17, 1 abstention)

Shared Mobility Advisory Committee

The Shared Mobility Advisory Committee will meet to approve minutes and discuss a possible action on the MBTA proposal for a Pearl St layover. Public comment will be taken on items not on the agenda.

• Discussion and possible action on MBTA proposal for Pearl St layover
• Approval of meeting minutes
• Public comment on non-agenda items

The Shared Mobility Advisory Committee voted unanimously to formalize a draft memo on the Pearl Street layover location as an official statement for the Transportation Board. The committee also discussed a $200,000 grant for BlueBikes expansion and planned a December meeting to gather location recommendations. No prior minutes were available for approval.

• Formalized Pearl Street layover memo as official SMAC statement (unanimous)
• Scheduled December meeting to discuss BlueBikes expansion locations

Commission for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Community Relations

The Immigrant Advancement Committee, part of Brookline's Commission for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Community Relations, is meeting remotely to vote on minutes, receive updates, and continue discussions on new projects and future work. The agenda includes a specific update on the distribution of the Welcome Booklet. The meeting is largely procedural and discussion-focused, with no votes on ordinances or contracts listed.

• Vote on meeting minutes
• Update on Welcome Booklet distribution
• Discussion of new projects and future work

Small Business Development Committee

The Small Business Development Committee is meeting as the Brookline Art Makes Community (BAMC) Steering Committee to discuss updates on its fall programs, including Boxes, Art, and Turkeys Around Town, as well as the Murals Around Town initiative. The committee will also discuss the First Flight program. The agenda is primarily informational, with no votes or contracts listed.

• Fall 2024 program updates: Boxes Around Town, Art Around Town, Turkeys Around Town
• Murals Around Town update
• First Flight discussion

The Brookline Art Makes Community Steering Committee reviewed updates on public art programs, including completed utility boxes, sculptures, and murals. They discussed the mural selection process with 10 walls under review and planned the First Flight at First Light event for December 5, 2024. No formal votes or binding decisions were recorded; the meeting was informational and planning-focused.

• Reviewed completion of three new painted utility boxes along Harvard Street
• Discussed mural selection process with 10 walls and artist proposals under review
• Planned First Flight at First Light event for December 5, 2024, 4-8 PM
• Discussed signage options for First Light (colorful vs. two-tone metal)
• Noted Patricia's turkey placement pending her input
• Scheduled Selection Committee meeting for November 13, 2024

Advisory Committee

The Advisory Committee's Ad Hoc Subcommittee is holding a public hearing on WA 20, a resolution supporting a permanent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. The subcommittee will hear public comment and may vote on the resolution, which would be a recommendation to Town Meeting. The agenda includes only this item and other business.

• Public hearing on WA 20, a resolution to support a permanent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas
• Possible vote on WA 20 by the subcommittee
• Public comment opportunity via email request to Chair Hardebeck

The WA20 Ad Hoc Subcommittee voted 5-0-0 to make no recommendation on Warrant Article 20, a resolution calling for a permanent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. The subcommittee held a public hearing where most speakers opposed the resolution, citing concerns about its one-sided nature, potential to fuel anti-Semitism, and focus on international issues. The subcommittee's decision sends the article to the full Advisory Committee without a recommendation.

• Made no recommendation on Warrant Article 20 (5-0-0)
• Heard public comments on the ceasefire resolution and five proposed amendments

Planning Board

The Brookline Planning Board is holding a virtual public hearing on Warrant Article #15, a proposed zoning amendment to align local rules with the state Affordable Homes Act regarding Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). The amendment would allow one ADU by-right and two by special permit on single-family lots, remove the home ownership requirement, and adjust height, size, and other restrictions. This hearing was postponed from October 28 and continued from October 22.

• Allow one ADU by-right and two by special permit on single-family lots
• Eliminate home ownership requirement for ADUs
• Increase detached ADU height limit to 22 feet and 1.5 stories
• Increase habitable space limit from 40% to 50% of main dwelling
• Remove 120% FAR cap and 5-year waiting period for garage conversion

The Planning Board voted 5-0 to recommend favorable action on Warrant Article 15, which would amend the zoning by-law to comply with the state's Affordable Homes Act regarding accessory dwelling units (ADUs). The recommendation includes a revision to Section 4.05.3.b.7 specifying that unenclosed stairways visible from a public way require a special permit and may not exceed two stories. The board discussed various details, including setbacks, window requirements, and nonconforming structures, but ultimately approved the article as revised.

• Recommended favorable action on Warrant Article 15 (ADU by-law amendment) (5-0)
• Revised Section 4.05.3.b.7 to require special permit for unenclosed stairways visible from a public way, limited to two stories

Planning Board

The Brookline Planning Board is holding a morning meeting to review sign and facade applications for four businesses. The board will consider new signage for restaurants and other establishments at specific addresses. Public comment is also scheduled for matters not on the agenda.

• 238 Washington Street – new facade and blade sign for restaurant Iru
• 415 Harvard Street – new channel letter sign for Poke Poki
• 139 Cypress Street – new channel letter sign for Iriskin
• 100 Centre Street – second review of identification sign for Center Communities of Brookline

The Brookline Planning Board approved sign plans for 238 Washington Street (Iru restaurant), 415 Harvard Street (Poke Poki), and 100 Centre Street (Center Communities of Brookline), each with conditions. The sign case for 139 Cypress Street (Iriskin) was continued to a future meeting. No non-agenda public comment was received.

• Approved sign plan for 238 Washington Street (Iru) with wood screening transparency condition (unanimous)
• Approved sign plan for 415 Harvard Street (Poke Poki) with reduced lettering and logo sizes (unanimous)
• Approved sign plan for 100 Centre Street (Center Communities of Brookline) with centered lettering and reduced panel height (unanimous)
• Continued sign case for 139 Cypress Street (Iriskin) to a future meeting

Zero Emissions Advisory Board

The Brookline Zero Emissions Advisory Board is meeting to approve prior minutes, hear public comment, and receive updates from the chair and the Sustainability and Natural Resources Division. The board will also discuss its working groups focused on residents, landlords, and developers, and plan agenda items for the next meeting. The agenda is largely procedural with discussion items.

• Approval of October 23, 2024 meeting minutes
• Public comment period
• Chair update
• Sustainability and Natural Resources Division update
• Discussion of ZEAB working groups: Residents, Landlords, Developers

The Zero Emissions Advisory Board agreed to establish working groups to accelerate the development of the Climate and Resiliency Plan (CARP). Vikram Aggarwal and Nick Caramello will define potential topics for these groups. The board also discussed addressing misleading sales calls regarding Brookline Green Energy contracts and noted that a Conservation & Sustainability Assistant position has been filled.

• Agreed to form working groups to support CARP development
• Vikram Aggarwal and Nick Caramello assigned to define working group topics
• Confirmed Conservation & Sustainability Assistant position filled
• Noted Climate and Resiliency Plan (CARP) RFP responses due 11/20
• No meeting scheduled for November 13, 2024

Preservation Commission

The Brookline Preservation Commission is holding a subcommittee meeting to review and possibly vote on updating the approved draft of the Local Historic District Guidelines. The draft is preliminary and will be subject to further review at a future public hearing.

• Review and possible vote to update the approved draft of the Local Historic District Guidelines
• Draft remains preliminary and subject to future public hearing

The Brookline Preservation Commission unanimously approved the revised Local Historic District (LHD) Design Guidelines as amended during the November 6, 2024 meeting. The commission reviewed and edited multiple sections, including windows, masonry, chimneys, additions, demolition, and lighting, and voted to retain a bullet point on replacement window lifecycle. A motion to allow non-wood but non-vinyl windows in new buildings was defeated.

• Approved LHD Design Guidelines (revised 11/6/2024) as amended (6-0)
• Retained bullet point 7 on replacement window lifecycle (5-1)
• Denied motion to allow non-wood, non-vinyl windows in new buildings (1-5)
• Removed green roofs sub-section, added case-by-case consideration
• Pared down demolition language to note salvage plan may be required

Brookline Commission for Women

The Brookline Commission for Women is meeting remotely to approve prior minutes, hear public comment, and receive updates from the Brookline Chamber of Commerce. The agenda includes discussions on warrant article updates, menstrual product availability, and preliminary planning for Women of the Year (WOY). No votes on substantive policy are scheduled beyond approving the October minutes.

• Vote to approve minutes from October 9, 2024 meeting
• Public comment period for issues not on the agenda
• Presentation by Christopher Mutty of Brookline Chamber of Commerce
• Update on menstrual product availability
• Preliminary planning for Women of the Year (WOY)

The Brookline Commission for Women approved the minutes from its October 9, 2024 meeting. The commission discussed collaborations with the Chamber of Commerce, menstrual product availability in schools, and preliminary planning for the Woman of the Year event. Members also discussed drafting a statement on women's rights and reaching out to political leaders for an educational panel.

• Approved October 9, 2024 meeting minutes
• Discussed collaboration with Chamber of Commerce for March Gala and business bootcamps
• Planned Woman of the Year event, nominations due by end of February
• Discussed drafting a statement on women's rights (Prashanthi to draft)
• Elizabeth to contact school nurses and principals about menstrual product supply
• Elizabeth to reach out to MA political leaders for educational panel

Brookline Commission for the Arts

The Brookline Commission for the Arts is holding a regular meeting to review and approve minutes, receive a treasurer's report, and discuss updates on the First Light fundraiser and the commission's website. The main business is the first round of reviews for 2025 Local Cultural Council (LCC) grant applications, with a timeline leading to grant awards in January 2025.

• Review and approve minutes of October 2, 2024 meeting
• Treasurer's report by John Dukakis
• First Light Fundraiser update
• First round of 2025 LCC grant reviews (timeline: review Nov-Dec 2024, awards Jan 2025, MCC annual report due Jan 16, 2025)
• BCA website review

Bicycle Advisory Committee

The Brookline Bicycle Advisory Committee is holding a hybrid meeting to discuss routine business, including police reports and open projects, and will hear updates on the Transportation Division website and 'Walk your wheels' signage. The committee will also conduct candidate interviews. The agenda is mostly procedural, with no major decisions or financial items listed.

• Discussion of Transportation Division website update
• Discussion of 'Walk your wheels' signage
• Committee candidate interviews

The Brookline Bicycle Advisory Committee met on November 6, 2024, and discussed police enforcement of bike lane parking, with civilian enforcement possible for stopped vehicles. The T-Board voted to replace taxi stands with loading zones, and the committee sought public input on taxi stand locations. No formal votes or decisions were taken by the BAC itself; the meeting was primarily informational and discussion-based.

• Discussed bike lane parking enforcement; civilian enforcers can ticket stopped vehicles
• Noted T-Board voted to replace taxi stands with loading zones; public input sought on taxi stand location
• Noted yield sign at Dummer and Essex will be relocated
• Discussed potential safe routes to school grant request for bike racks

Planning Board

The Brookline Planning Board will hold a continued site plan review hearing and traffic presentation for the Brookline Housing Authority's proposed redevelopment of the Walnut/High Apartments. The project, located in the MBTA-CA Multifamily Overlay District, includes 181 units across two buildings developed in phases, with demolition of existing structures and new construction.

• Continued site plan review and traffic presentation for 181-unit Walnut/High Apartments project
• Phase 1: demolition of 4-12, 16-24, 28-42 Walnut Street; construction of 95-unit building and eight 4-bedroom townhouses
• Phase 2: demolition of 22 High Street; construction of 85-unit building with underground parking
• Project located in MBTA-CA Multifamily Overlay District, Precinct 4

The Brookline Planning Board held a public hearing on the Brookline Housing Authority's proposed 181-unit redevelopment at Walnut/High Apartments, focusing on traffic and parking. No final decision was made; the hearing was continued to December 10, 2024, for further discussion on stormwater, design revisions, and possible conditions.

• Continued site plan review hearing for Walnut/High Apartments to Dec. 10, 2024

Housing Advisory Board

The Brookline Housing Advisory Board is meeting remotely to discuss and possibly vote on Warrant Articles 9 and 15, and to consider follow-up with the Select Board on the tabled linkage fees/nexus study. The board will also discuss promoting private contributions to the Affordable Housing Trust and receive updates on housing initiatives.

• Discussion and possible vote on Warrant Articles 9 and 15
• Follow-up on Select Board's decision to table Linkage Fees/Nexus Study
• Promoting private contributions to the Affordable Housing Trust
• Updates on Affordable Housing Overlay District and Comprehensive Plan
• Walnut-High/CPA funding of Affordable Housing Trust

The Housing Advisory Board voted unanimously to recommend favorable action on Warrant Article 15, which would allow accessory dwelling units (ADUs) with several modifications, and voted 6-0-3 to recommend favorable action on Warrant Article 9, which would allow a third unit by right in certain zoning districts. The board also discussed but took no vote on a possible amendment to limit the size of a third unit, and discussed follow-up on linkage fees and private contributions to the Affordable Housing Trust.

• Recommended favorable action on Warrant Article 15 (ADUs) unanimously (9-0)
• Recommended favorable action on Warrant Article 9 (third units in T districts) (6-0-3)
• Approved September 4, 2024 meeting minutes (7-0-1)
• No vote taken on proposed amendment to limit third unit size

Select Board

The Brookline Select Board will hold a special meeting to discuss and potentially vote on several warrant articles, including zoning amendments for two- and three-family dwellings, Harvard Street form-based zones, and a petition to restrict rodenticides. They will also review reports on previously referred Town Meeting articles, including one to allow two additional cannabis retailer licenses for equity applicants and another to create a Black and Brown Commission. The agenda includes public comment and approval of miscellaneous items, such as a community event request and a new hire authorization.

• Vote on Warrant Article 18: petition for special act to restrict rodenticides
• Vote on Warrant Article 16: expand Tree Preservation By-Law requirements
• Vote on Warrant Article 8: allow ZBA to waive minimum lot size for two-family conversions in SC/T districts
• Vote on Warrant Article 9: allow three-family dwellings in T districts
• Approve community event request for First Light from Brookline Chamber of Commerce

The Select Board approved a revised motion on accessory dwelling units (Article 15) and accepted reports on cannabis licensing and a proposed Black N Brown Commission. Several zoning articles, including those on lot size waivers and three-unit dwellings, were referred to other committees for further study. The board also approved hiring a tobacco control coordinator and a community event request.

• Approved revised Article 15 on accessory dwelling units (5-0)
• Approved report on cannabis retail licenses (5-0)
• Approved report on Black N Brown Commission referral (5-0)
• Referred Article 8 on lot size waivers to further study (5-0)
• Referred Article 9 on three-unit dwellings to Steering Committee (5-0)
• Approved Article 10 on Harvard Street exterior materials (5-0)
• Voted No Action on Article 11 on Harvard Street design modifications (4-1)
• Approved Article 14 on separate building ownership (4-0-1)

Economic Development Advisory Board

The Economic Development Advisory Board will hear a presentation on the Chestnut Hill Commercial Area City Realty project, discuss forming a subcommittee, and consider Warrant Article #16 on tree preservation. The board will also receive updates on the Comprehensive Plan, licensing streamlining, the Centre Street Lot project, the Coolidge Corner Parking Study, and Washington Street Complete Streets.

• Chestnut Hill Commercial Area Study – City Realty Project presentation and discussion, possible vote to form a subcommittee
• Warrant Article #16 – Tree Preservation discussion and possible vote
• Streamlining Licensing Memo from Assistant Town Administrator of Operations Tiffany Oliva
• Centre Street Lot Project update
• Coolidge Corner Parking Study update

The Economic Development Advisory Board voted 11-0 to form an ad-hoc subcommittee to evaluate the financial feasibility and fiscal impacts of potential rezoning and redevelopment in the Chestnut Hill Commercial Area, including City Realty's proposed project. The board also approved the October 7 meeting minutes (10-0-1) and declined to vote on Warrant Article #16 (Tree Preservation) due to unresolved legal concerns and insufficient time to assess its impact.

• Approved October 7, 2024 meeting minutes (10-0-1)
• Created ad-hoc subcommittee on Chestnut Hill financial viability (11-0)
• Declined to vote on Warrant Article #16 (Tree Preservation)

Driscoll School Building Advisory Committee

The Driscoll School Building Advisory Committee will vote on sending a list of recommended items, including a project funding recommendations memo and a Driscoll School needs list, to the Building Commission. This is the main action item on the agenda.

• Vote to send list of recommended items to the Building Commission
• Project funding recommendations memo
• Driscoll School needs list

Metro Public Health Collaborative

The Metro Public Health Collaborative (MPHC) is holding its monthly meeting for Arlington, Belmont, Brookline, and Newton. The Advisory Board will vote on prior minutes and discuss the 2025 meeting cadence. The General Session will discuss a potential vote on the RIZE-Mosaic Opioid Matching Grant application, current NEHA/FDA Grant efforts, and updates on hoarding resources, permitting guides, the Brookline Racial Equity Report, and nursing activities.

• Vote to approve prior meeting minutes
• Discuss potential vote on RIZE-Mosaic Opioid Matching Grant application
• Discuss current efforts on NEHA/FDA Grant and upcoming 2025 application
• Update on hoarding support resources and procedures
• Update on Brookline Racial Equity Report

The Metro Public Health Collaborative unanimously approved the September 20, 2024 meeting minutes and voted to cancel the December 20, 2024 meeting due to the holidays. The board discussed but did not vote on the RIZE-Mosaic Opioid Matching Grant application, instead assigning action items to draft a regional application and a memo on funding needs. No other formal votes were taken.

• Approved September 20, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Cancelled December 20, 2024 meeting (unanimous)

Audit Committee

The Brookline Audit Committee is meeting remotely to introduce the Town's new Comptroller, receive a presentation on cybersecurity from IT staff, and get a status update on the Fiscal Year 2024 audit. The agenda is otherwise procedural.

• Introduction of new Town Comptroller
• Cybersecurity posture presentation by IT Department
• Fiscal Year 2024 audit status update

The Audit Committee met remotely on October 31, 2024 and received an introduction to newly hired Comptroller Chelsea Stevens, who begins in November. The committee heard a presentation on the Town's cybersecurity posture from Information Technology Department staff, and Finance Director Lincoln Heineman described internal controls in the Treasurer's office and periodic security reviews with IT. Heineman also gave a status update on the Town's Fiscal Year 2024 audit. The minutes record no votes or formal decisions; the meeting adjourned at 10:11 AM.

• No substantive decisions or votes recorded; meeting was informational
• Introduced new Comptroller Chelsea Stevens, starting November
• Received cybersecurity presentation from IT staff
• Heard status update on FY2024 audit
• Adjourned at 10:11 AM

MLK Celebration Committee

The Brookline MLK Celebration Committee is holding a remote meeting to approve minutes from its October 2, 2024 meeting and receive updates on MLK Day discussion. The agenda also includes time for other or new business and setting the next meeting date.

• Approve minutes from 10/2/24 meeting
• Updates on MLK Day Discussion
• Other or New Business
• Next Meeting

The committee approved the minutes from the October 2 meeting with a vote of 2-0-1. Members discussed logistical updates for the upcoming MLK Day event, including securing a movie, creating a poster, and identifying potential panelists. A $800 sponsorship from BCF was noted, and a new applicant, Rosilyn Lowe, was introduced.

• Approved minutes from 10/2/24 meeting (2-0-1)
• Noted receipt of $800 sponsorship from BCF
• Introduced new committee applicant Rosilyn Lowe
• Scheduled next meeting for November 14 at 1 PM

Tree Planting Committee

The Brookline Tree Planting Committee is meeting to approve minutes from a joint meeting with the Conservation Commission and to discuss Warrant Article 16, a proposed tree preservation bylaw. The committee will consider the bylaw's language and related documents, but no final decision is scheduled.

• Approval of joint Conservation Commission and Tree Planting Committee minutes from October 23, 2024
• Discussion of Warrant Article 16 on tree preservation bylaw
• Review of redlined and clean copies of the proposed bylaw
• Review of memo to Moderator and presentation slides for petitioners

Pierce School Building Committee

The Pierce School Building Committee is holding its third community forum to present the project design and discuss the MEPA environmental review process. The meeting includes public Q&A and is scheduled to adjourn at 6:30 PM.

• Project design overview by Miller Dyer Spears, Architects
• MEPA Environmental Review Process presentation by BSC Group
• Public Q&A session
• Meeting held via Zoom and phone

The Pierce School Building Committee held a hybrid community forum on October 30, 2024, as part of the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) review for the proposed redevelopment of Pierce School at 50 School Street. The meeting provided an opportunity for public input on the project, which includes a geothermal wellfield under the adjacent playground. No formal decisions were made; the session was for information and comment gathering.

• Held public meeting for MEPA environmental review input (no vote)
• No formal decisions or votes recorded

Moderator's Committee on Forms of Government

The Moderator's Committee on Forms of Government is meeting to continue its work. The agenda includes a Q&A session with Sandy Pooler and Jeff Nutting, housekeeping items, and a continuing discussion of the research framework. Public participation may occur if time permits.

• Q&A with Sandy Pooler and Jeff Nutting
• Housekeeping discussion
• Continuing discussion of research framework
• Possible public participation

The Committee heard presentations from retired municipal government veterans Jeff Nutting and Sandy Pooler regarding city manager and town meeting structures. Members discussed research assignments and scheduled the next meeting for November 18.

• Scheduled next meeting for November 18 at 4:30

Conservation Commission

The Brookline Conservation Commission is meeting to discuss and potentially vote on the next course of action regarding Warrant Article 16, which was presented by petitioners at a joint meeting with the Town Planning Commission. The agenda includes review of related reports, emails, and past commission comments. The meeting is primarily focused on this single substantive item.

• Discussion and consideration of Warrant Article 16
• Potential vote on next course of action regarding Warrant Article 16
• Review of WA 16 Human Services Subcommittee Report
• Review of emails to the Commission regarding WA 16
• Approval of minutes from joint meeting with TPC on 10.23.24

The Brookline Conservation Commission voted 4-0 to have the Chair and Vice Chair revise and submit a letter regarding Warrant Article 16, the proposed tree protection bylaw. The Commission did not vote to take no action, but the letter may effectively express concerns rather than support. The decision came after discussion of the bylaw's scope, potential unintended consequences, and its interaction with wetland protection.

• Approved motion to have Chair and Vice Chair revise and submit letter on Warrant Article 16 (4-0)
• Held off on approving meeting minutes until next full Conservation Commission meeting

Park & Recreation Commission

The Park and Recreation Commission's Monmouth Park Phase 2 Design Review Committee is meeting to review the project scope and playground presentation, followed by community discussion and next steps. The agenda includes approval of draft minutes from a prior meeting. This is a design review and community feedback session, not a final decision-making meeting.

• Approval of Monmouth DRC Draft Meeting Minutes 10.26.23
• Overview of Monmouth Park Phase 2 project and scope of work
• Monmouth Playground presentation
• Community discussion and feedback session
• Next steps and adjournment

School Committee

The Brookline School Committee is holding its regular meeting with votes on the FY2026 School Capital Improvement Plan, modifications to deferred maintenance project allocations, and several budget-related authorizations. The committee will also discuss and vote on supporting a 'Yes' vote on Massachusetts Question 2 to eliminate MCAS as a graduation requirement, and will review an Open Meeting Law complaint.

• Possible vote to approve FY 2026 School Capital Improvement Plan
• Possible vote to approve modifications to deferred maintenance (mini CIP) project allocations
• Possible vote to authorize amending Eastern Bus Company contract for Fisher Hill campus routes during Pierce School construction
• Possible vote to support 'Yes' on Question 2 eliminating MCAS as graduation requirement
• Review of Open Meeting Law complaint filed by Maria Kogan on October 22, 2024

The Brookline School Committee unanimously approved the FY 2026 School Capital Improvement Plan totaling $1,236,948, which funds classroom capacity leases, furniture, and a long-term capital plan. The committee also voted 6-1-2 to endorse a 'Yes' vote on Massachusetts Ballot Question 2, which would eliminate the MCAS test as a graduation requirement. Additionally, the committee approved modifications to FY25/FY26 deferred maintenance allocations and authorized several administrative actions, including amending the Eastern Bus Company contract for Pierce School construction transportation.

• Approved FY 2026 School Capital Improvement Plan of $1,236,948 (9-0)
• Approved FY25/FY26 deferred maintenance modifications, submitted to Select Board (9-0)
• Endorsed 'Yes' vote on Ballot Question 2 to eliminate MCAS graduation requirement (6-1-2)
• Authorized amendment to Eastern Bus Company contract for Fisher Hill campus transport (9-0)
• Authorized Finance Subcommittee Chair to approve grant applications between meetings (9-0)
• Authorized staff to align prior/current year building rental fees (9-0)
• Referred Open Meeting Law complaint to Town Counsel for response (9-0)
• Instructed MASC delegate on multiple resolutions, including support for MCAS alternative (4-3-2)

Pierce School Building Committee

The Pierce School Building Committee is meeting to discuss outreach for the Pierce School Redevelopment and Pierce School Park Geothermal project. The meeting includes a scheduled session under the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act to inform residents and gather comments.

• Public outreach meeting for Pierce School Geothermal project under MEPA review
• Meeting allows Brookline and nearby Boston residents to ask questions and comment
• Hybrid meeting at 62 Harvard Street, 3rd floor conference room, 6:00 PM

The Pierce School Building Committee held a hybrid community forum to gather public input on the Pierce School Redevelopment Project as part of the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) review. The meeting was informational, with no formal decisions made. The project includes a geothermal wellfield under the adjacent playground, and the public was invited to comment via email or mail.

• Held public meeting for MEPA environmental review input (no vote)
• No formal decisions or votes recorded

Open Space & Recreation Plan Committee

The Greenways & Transportation Subcommittee of Brookline's Open Space & Recreation Plan Committee will meet to discuss, edit, and compile the 2025 OSRP Needs Analysis. The meeting includes approval of prior minutes and review of supporting documents such as the 2018 Bike Lane Development Status and the 2018 Open Space Map. This is a working session focused on drafting the needs analysis, not a final decision-making meeting.

• Discussion and editing of 2025 OSRP Needs Analysis
• Review of 2018 Bike Lane Development Status
• Review of 2018 Open Space Map - Paths & Trails
• Approval of minutes from 10.8.24 subcommittee meeting

The Greenways & Transportation Subcommittee reviewed and compiled needs for the 2025 Open Space & Recreation Plan Needs Analysis, incorporating suggestions on transit connections, Safe Routes to School, and pedestrian infrastructure. They voted to authorize A Cassie to finalize the discussion into a draft form. The meeting was procedural and focused on drafting, with no final plan approved.

• Approved minutes from 10.8.24 subcommittee meeting (5-0)
• Authorized A Cassie to finalize needs analysis discussion into draft form (5-0)

Chestnut Hill Commercial Area Study Community Advisory Group

The Chestnut Hill Commercial Area Study Community Advisory Group will hear a presentation from City Realty on its updated redevelopment proposal for 1280-1330 Boylston Street, followed by questions and public comment. The meeting is a staff-led public forum, and no votes or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Presentation: City Realty's updated redevelopment proposal for 1280-1330 Boylston Street
• Public comment period (3 minutes per speaker)
• Hybrid meeting at 11 Pierce St (Denny Room) and via Zoom

Bicycle Advisory Committee

The Bicycle Advisory Committee is holding a joint meeting with the Shared Mobility and Pedestrian Advisory Committees. The main item is an MBTA presentation on proposed accessibility upgrades at several Green Line C Branch (Beacon Street) stations, including impacts on parking, trees, and roadway geometry. The meeting also includes new business regarding the committee's webpage.

• MBTA presentation on Green Line C Branch station accessibility upgrades
• Proposed station upgrades at Englewood Avenue, Dean Road, Summit Avenue, Tappan Street, Fairbanks Street/Brandon Hall, St Paul Street, and Hawes Street
• Discussion of impacts including consolidation, trees, parking, roadway geometry, Bridle Path, accessibility, and efficiencies
• New business: Bicycle Advisory Committee webpage

Pedestrian Advisory Committee

The Pedestrian Advisory Committee is holding a joint meeting with the Shared Mobility and Bicycle Advisory Committees. The main item is an MBTA presentation on proposed accessibility upgrades at eight Green Line C Branch stations on Beacon Street, including impacts on trees, parking, and roadway geometry. The meeting also includes new business and discussion of the committee's webpage.

• MBTA presentation on Green Line C Branch station accessibility upgrades
• Proposed upgrades at Englewood Avenue, Dean Road, Summit Avenue, Tappan Street, Fairbanks Street/Brandon Hall, St Paul Street, and Hawes Street
• Discussion of impacts and benefits: consolidation, trees, parking, roadway geometry, Bridle Path, accessibility, and efficiencies
• Q&A and open discussion on the proposed upgrades
• New business: Pedestrian Advisory Committee webpage

Shared Mobility Advisory Committee

The joint Shared Mobility, Pedestrian, and Bicycle Advisory Committee is receiving a presentation from the MBTA on proposed accessibility upgrades at eight Green Line C Branch (Beacon Street) stations. The discussion covers project goals, proposed station changes, and impacts on trees, parking, roadway geometry, and accessibility. The committee will also take up new business regarding its webpage.

• MBTA presentation on Green Line C Branch station accessibility upgrades
• Proposed upgrades at Englewood Avenue, Dean Road, Summit Avenue, Tappan Street, Fairbanks Street/Brandon Hall, St Paul Street, and Hawes Street
• Discussion of impacts including consolidation, trees, parking, roadway geometry, Bridle Path, accessibility, and efficiencies
• New business: Shared Mobility Advisory Committee webpage

Planning Board

The Planning Board will open a public hearing for site plan review of the Brookline Housing Authority's proposed redevelopment of its Walnut/High Apartments. The 181-unit project, in the MBTA-CA Multifamily Overlay District, would be built in two phases with demolition of existing structures and construction of two buildings.

• Public hearing for site plan review of 181-unit redevelopment at 22-42 Walnut Street, 4-12 Walnut Street, and 22 High Street
• Phase 1: demolition of three structures and construction of 95-unit building plus eight 4-bedroom townhouses
• Phase 2: demolition of 22 High Street and construction of 85-unit building with underground parking
• Project in MBTA-CA Multifamily Overlay District, Precinct 4

The Planning Board opened a public hearing for a proposed 181-unit redevelopment project by the Brookline Housing Authority. The board discussed site plans, parking, and architectural details, but no final decision was made.

• Continued site plan review for 22-42 Walnut Street and 22 High Street to November 7, 2024

Library Trustees

The Brookline Board of Library Trustees is holding a virtual executive committee meeting to discuss updates to the director's annual evaluation process and to consider consultative options for supporting director-board and administration-staff relationships, as well as professional development for library leadership. The agenda includes only these two discussion items, with no votes or public hearings scheduled.

• Discussion of updates to director annual evaluation process
• Discussion of consultative options for director-board and administration-staff relationships
• Discussion of professional development for library leadership

Select Board

The Brookline Select Board will vote on several warrant articles for the November 19 Special Town Meeting, including zoning amendments to allow two-family conversions, three-family dwellings, and changes to Harvard Street form-based zones. The board will also consider accepting a $2 million federal earmark for the Beacon Street Bridle Path Project, approve various licenses and donations, and hear updates on the Washington Street Complete Street Project and the Sustainability and Natural Resources Division.

• Accept $2M federal earmark for Beacon Street Bridle Path Project
• Vote on zoning articles: two-family conversions, three-family dwellings, height limits, outdoor lighting, signs
• Approve $87,000 MA DPH Tobacco Cessation grant
• Award $81,746 extra work order for snow plowing to D'Allessandro Corp.
• Approve liquor licenses for Kyuramen, Allandale Farm, and others

The Select Board voted on several warrant articles for the November 19, 2024 Special Town Meeting. They gave favorable action to Article 7 (height restriction), Article 12 (outdoor lighting), and Article 13 (signage), while holding votes on Articles 8, 9, 10, 11, 14, 15, and 16 for further review. The board also approved numerous routine items, including grants, donations, licenses, and hirings.

• Approved favorable action on Article 7 (height restriction) 3-0-2
• Approved favorable action on Article 12 (outdoor lighting) 5-0
• Approved favorable action on Article 13 (signage) 5-0
• Held vote on Article 8 (two-family conversion) pending review
• Held vote on Article 9 (three-family dwellings) pending review
• Held vote on Article 10 (exterior materials) pending review
• Held vote on Article 11 (form-based code relief) pending review
• Approved $2M Beacon Street Bridle Path contract (5-0)

School Committee

The Brookline School Committee's Curriculum Subcommittee is meeting to approve minutes from a prior joint session and to receive a presentation and discussion on the district's Spring 2024 MCAS results and accountability data. The meeting is open to the public and will also include time for old and new business before adjourning at 5:30 PM.

• Approval of minutes from September 18, 2024 joint meeting with Finance Subcommittee
• Presentation and discussion of Spring 2024 MCAS results and accountability data

The Curriculum Subcommittee approved the minutes from the September 18, 2024 joint meeting and reviewed the district's 2024 MCAS results and accountability data. No policy decisions were made; the meeting was informational, with staff presenting trends and members requesting further data and dashboard access.

• Approved minutes of September 18, 2024 joint meeting (3-0)
• Reviewed 2024 MCAS results and accountability data (no vote)

Preservation Commission

The Brookline Preservation Commission will hold a public hearing on seven applications for Certificates of Appropriateness or Hardship in local historic districts. The applications involve changes such as installing AC condensers, altering windows, building additions, and replacing windows. The commission will also approve minutes from previous meetings and take public comment on non-agenda matters.

• 90 Ivy Street: install two AC condensers (Ivy Brookline Development LLC)
• 37 Osborne Road: alter rear fenestration (Zhou Chen)
• 242 Walnut Street: build addition and detached garage (RLAW)
• 28 Adams Street: reduce side entry porch size (Leah Broder)
• 60 Glen Road: replace eight windows (Kathryn Gray)

The Preservation Commission approved a Certificate of Hardship to reduce a side entry porch at 28 Adams Street and approved AC condenser installations at 90 Ivy Street. At 14 Newell Road, the Commission denied requests to make gables flush and alter window sizes, but approved basement window wells and removal of a bay window. Cases at 37 Osborne Road and 82 Carlton Street were continued, and a 242 Walnut Street addition was sent to a subcommittee.

• Approved AC condenser installation at 90 Ivy Street (5-0)
• Continued 37 Osborne Road fenestration case to allow revised drawings (5-0)
• Continued 242 Walnut Street addition to subcommittee (5-0); Elperin, Richard, Jack to serve
• Approved 28 Adams Street porch reduction, option 2 (5-0)
• Denied flush gable changes at 14 Newell Road east/north elevations (5-0)
• Approved basement window wells at 14 Newell Road (5-0)
• Approved skylight removal but denied small window removal at 14 Newell Road west elevation (5-0)
• Continued 82 Carlton Street retroactive window case (5-0)

Advisory Committee

The Brookline Advisory Committee will hold a public hearing and meeting to review and possibly vote on approval of collective bargaining agreements, and to discuss and possibly vote on zoning amendments, including allowing three-family dwellings in T districts and changes to Harvard Street form-based zones. The committee will also hear a report on amendments to the Tree Preservation Bylaw.

• Public hearing and possible vote on WA 2: Approval of Collective Bargaining Agreements (Human Resources)
• Report on WA 16 (Tree Preservation Bylaw) amendments with possible reconsideration of previous vote
• Discussion and possible vote on WA 9: Amend Zoning By-Laws to allow three-family dwellings in T districts
• Discussion and possible vote on WA 11: Amend Harvard Street Form-Based Zones to allow Planning Board to permit substitutions to massing, facade, and architecture standards

The Advisory Committee voted 18-1-4 to recommend favorable action on Warrant Article 16, the Tree Preservation Bylaw, as amended with exemptions for arborist-approved removals and solar energy installations. The committee also voted 15-5-1 to refer Warrant Article 9, which would allow three-family dwellings in T districts, to the Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee. A motion to recommend favorable action on Warrant Article 11, which would allow Planning Board flexibility in Harvard Street form-based zoning, failed 2-16-2. The committee took no action on Warrant Article 2 regarding collective bargaining agreements, as none were presented.

• Recommended favorable action on WA 16 Tree Preservation Bylaw as amended (18-1-4)
• Referred WA 9 three-family dwellings in T districts to Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee (15-5-1)
• Motion for favorable action on WA 11 Harvard Street zoning flexibility failed (2-16-2)
• Recommended no action on WA 2 collective bargaining agreements (19-0-0)

Library Trustees

The Brookline Village Library Board of Trustees is meeting in person to continue discussing a proposal to encourage and prioritize ongoing trustee training and education, particularly on topics related to trustee duties and responsibilities. The agenda also includes old and new business and updates on new trustee written orientation plans.

• Continue discussion on proposal to encourage and prioritize ongoing trustee training and education
• Review any outstanding new trustee written orientation plan updates
• Old and new business

Advisory Committee

The Human Services Subcommittee of Brookline's Advisory Committee is holding a public hearing to discuss and possibly vote on proposed amendments to WA 16, and on WA 16 as amended. The public cannot comment orally but may submit written comments by noon the day before the hearing.

• Discussion and possible votes on proposed amendments to WA 16
• Discussion and possible votes on WA 16, as amended
• Public hearing with written comments accepted until noon the day prior

The Human Services Subcommittee of the Brookline Advisory Committee voted unanimously (5-0) to recommend favorable action on Warrant Article 16, which would amend the Tree Preservation Bylaw (Article 8.41). The vote came after petitioners added two amendments: one exempting tree removals deemed beneficial by a Certified Arborist, and another exempting solar energy system installations from mitigation and fee requirements under certain conditions. The subcommittee also discussed but took no action on a climate benefits analysis submitted by a resident.

• Voted 5-0 for favorable action on Warrant Article 16, as amended (Granoff, Florio, Goldstein, Lebovitz, Penzel; Perler did not vote)
• Added amendment exempting tree removals for the health of other trees, as confirmed in writing by a Certified Arborist
• Added amendment exempting solar energy system installations from mitigation and permit fees, subject to contract and arborist documentation

Tree Protection Committee

The Brookline Tree Protection Committee will review and possibly vote on Warrant Article 16 regarding a tree preservation bylaw, receive an update on the Urban Forestry Climate Resiliency Master Plan, and discuss and possibly vote on a Parks and Open Space Community Preservation Act (CPA) application. The meeting is held via Zoom.

• Review, discussion, and possible vote on Warrant Article 16 (Tree Preservation Bylaw)
• Progress update on Urban Forestry Climate Resiliency Master Plan
• Discussion and possible vote on Parks and Open Space CPA application

Advisory Council of Public Health

The Advisory Council of Public Health will hold a public hearing and consider two items: a request to reconsider its prior vote on Warrant Article 18, a home rule petition to restrict second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (SGARs), and a discussion and possible vote on Warrant Article 9, a zoning amendment to allow three-family dwellings in two-family zones. The agenda includes public comment and announcements.

• Reconsideration of vote on Warrant Article 18: home rule petition to restrict SGARs
• Discussion and possible vote on Warrant Article 9: zoning amendment for three-family dwellings in two-family zones
• Public comment period for items within Council jurisdiction
• Support letters from Mass Audubon, MSPCA, Charles River Watershed Association, Brookline Bird Club

The Advisory Council of Public Health voted to support an amendment restricting second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (SGARs). The council also approved a memo supporting zoning changes to allow three-family dwellings in two-family zones.

• Approved support for amendment to WA18 to restrict Second-Generation Anticoagulants Rodenticides (6-0)
• Approved memo supporting WA9 to allow three-family dwellings in two-family zones (6-0)

Advisory Committee

The Brookline Advisory Committee will consider and possibly vote on an amended version of Warrant Article 5 to create a Brookline Youth Council, and will hear a presentation and discuss Warrant Article 7 to restrict building height to 2.5 stories in certain zoning districts. The meeting includes public comment and other business.

• Possible vote on amended WA 5 to create a Brookline Youth Council
• Discussion and possible vote on WA 7 to amend zoning to restrict height to 2.5 stories in select S, SC, and T districts
• Revision of the definition of 'Story' in Section 2.19
• Public comment period (5 minutes)
• Meeting held via Zoom with registration required

The Advisory Committee voted to reconsider and then recommend No Action on Warrant Article 5, which would create a Brookline Youth Council, despite amendments to include METCO students and narrow the age range. The committee also voted to refer Warrant Article 7, a proposed 2.5-story height cap in certain residential districts, to the Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee for further study.

• Reconsidered prior vote on WA 5 (Youth Council) (17-3-1)
• Recommended No Action on WA 5 as amended (6-14-1)
• Referred WA 7 (2.5-story height cap) to Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee (17-1-2)

Retirement Board

The Brookline Retirement Board will hold a virtual public meeting to discuss routine administrative matters, including updates on the PRIM investment fund, an ADR update, annual affidavit status, and staffing. The board will also review financial reports, approve prior month's minutes and expenses, and receive legal and educational updates. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major policy decisions or public hearings listed.

• September 24 PRIM Update – FY25 PE
• ADR Update
• Annual Affidavit Update
• Retirement Board Staffing Update
• September Bank Recs/Trial Balance, Cash YTD

Advisory Committee

The Land Use, Zoning and Sustainability Subcommittee of the Advisory Committee will review and possibly vote on several warrant articles related to residential zoning, including a 2.5-story height cap, minimum lot sizes for two-family conversions, allowing three units in T districts, spacing requirements for condos, and ADU by-law amendments. The public can attend but cannot comment during this meeting.

• Warrant Article 7: 2.5-story cap in residential districts
• Warrant Article 8: Delete minimum lot size restriction for 2-family conversion special permit
• Warrant Article 9: Allow three units in T districts
• Warrant Article 14: Spacing of residential buildings on same lot for condos in M-1.0 district special permit
• Warrant Article 15: ADU by-laws amendments

The Land Use, Zoning and Sustainability Subcommittee of Brookline's Advisory Committee met on 10/24/2024 to review proposed changes to a zoning warrant article on Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). Town Planner Beccah Mapure presented revised side yard setbacks, rear yard setbacks, and rules for converting pre-existing non-conforming detached structures, noting the town was close to agreement with Dick Benka and Roger Blood but some details remained open, such as a possible 50% limit on envelope expansion. The subcommittee discussed the proposals and adjourned to a future date without taking any votes. No decisions were made.

• No votes taken; subcommittee adjourned to a future date

Lawrence School Site Council

The Lawrence School Site Council is meeting to receive principal updates on the 2024-2025 school year, including MCAS spring 2024 accountability data, and to review the current School Improvement Plan (SIP) for 2024-2026, along with the previous SIP and the district strategic plan. The agenda includes introductions, principal updates, a discussion of the SIP, and open comment for future topics. This is a regular meeting with no votes or decisions listed.

• Review of MCAS Spring 2024 & accountability data
• Discussion of Lawrence School 2024-2026 School Improvement Plan
• Review of Lawrence School 2022-2024 SIP
• Presentation of SIP to School Committee
• Open comment period for future agenda topics

School Committee

The Brookline School Committee's Capital Subcommittee will review summer project expenses, deferred maintenance, and a mini CIP recommendation, then vote on the FY26 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) request. The meeting is a working session focused on capital planning and funding priorities.

• Review of Summer Projects and Related Expenses (FY25)
• Review of Deferred Maintenance (mini CIP)
• Capital Plan Update and mini CIP Recommendation
• Review and Vote on FY26 CIP Request
• FY26 CIP Recommendation

The Capital Improvements Subcommittee voted to recommend that the School Committee approve the FY26 deferred maintenance project allocations and the FY26 School Capital Improvement Plan. The FY26 CIP request totals $1,236,948 for non-deferred maintenance items, while the deferred maintenance plan uses $2,218,012 in available funds (including rollover). One member abstained from both votes, citing a desire for more time to review changes.

• Approved August 27, 2024 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Recommended FY26 deferred maintenance allocations (3-0, 1 abstention)
• Recommended FY26 School Capital Improvement Plan of $1,236,948 (3-0, 1 abstention)

Commission for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Community Relations

The Brookline Commission for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Community Relations is meeting remotely to review minutes, hear from the Town Language Access Coordinator, and discuss community spotlight events. The commission will also receive subcommittee and liaison updates and consider meeting dates and potential public hearings for FY25 and FY26. Public comment is scheduled.

• Approval of meeting minutes from September 2024
• Spotlight guest: Ahmad Hamssa, Town Language Access Coordinator
• Discussion of community spotlight events
• Subcommittee and liaison updates
• Meeting dates and potential public hearings for FY25 and FY26

Planning Board

The Brookline Planning Board's October 24 meeting is postponed. The only item is to continue the public hearing for a daycare project at 264 Washington Street to a specific future date. No decisions or discussions are scheduled.

• 264 Washington Street: continue hearing for Limited Standard Project Site Plan+ Design Review (Little Children Schoolhouse) to demolish 1-story and build 4-story daycare building
• Dover Amendment application (M.G.L. c.40A, sec.3)
• Precinct 6, Zoning District H-MS Harvard Street Article XI

The Planning Board continued the Site Plan and Design Review hearing for 264 Washington Street. No deliberations or testimony occurred during this session.

• Continued hearing for 264 Washington Street to November 13, 2024

Zero Emissions Advisory Board

The Zero Emissions Advisory Board is meeting to approve minutes, hear public comment, and receive updates from the chair and the Sustainability and Natural Resources Division. The board will discuss a Mass Save Community First Partnership application and review a request for proposals for a Climate Action and Resiliency Plan.

• Approval of October 9, 2024 meeting minutes
• Mass Save Community First Partnership application discussion
• Climate Action and Resiliency Plan RFP discussion
• Public comment period

The Zero Emissions Advisory Board approved the October 9, 2024 meeting minutes by a 3-0 vote. The board discussed the Climate Action and Resiliency Plan (CARP) RFP, agreeing it was well-focused, and considered a Mass Save Community First Partnership application, with a decision deferred pending further research. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved October 9, 2024 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Agreed CARP RFP was well-focused and detailed
• Deferred decision on Mass Save Community First Partnership application pending further research

School Committee

The Brookline School Committee's Finance Subcommittee is meeting to review budget reports, including the FY24 close and FY25 first quarter financials, and to discuss FY26 fees. They may vote on gifts, grants, position requests, and a possible amendment to the Pierce School transportation contract. The meeting is largely routine financial oversight.

• Review and approval of gifts and grants
• Possible vote to authorize Finance Subcommittee Chair to review grant applications between meetings
• Possible vote to amend district transportation contract for Pierce School transportation
• FY24 Budget Close Report and FY25 1st Quarter Financial Report
• Preliminary discussion of FY26 fees and possible vote to authorize staff to negotiate prior/current year charges

The Finance Subcommittee voted to recommend that the full School Committee accept various federal and state grants and private gifts. The subcommittee also recommended authorizing a contract amendment for student transportation during the Pierce School construction project.

• Recommended full School Committee accept gifts for Lawrence School, BHS, and food services (4-0)
• Recommended full School Committee accept federal and state grants including METCO and Title I-IV (4-0)
• Approved $12,500 grant application for a newcomer academic center (4-0)
• Recommended authorizing Finance Subcommittee Chair to review grant applications between meetings (4-0)
• Recommended authorizing Eastern Bus Company contract amendment for Pierce School transportation (4-0)
• Recommended authorizing staff to align building rental fees with 2023 rates (4-0)
• Approved September 18, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0)

Advisory Committee

The Land Use, Zoning and Sustainability Subcommittee of the Advisory Committee is holding a public hearing on Warrant Article 9, which would amend the Town's Zoning By-Laws to allow three-family dwellings in T districts. The subcommittee will hear a presentation from petitioners and staff, take questions and public comment, then deliberate and vote on a recommendation to Town Meeting.

• Public hearing on WA 9 to amend Section 4.07 and Table 5.01 of Zoning By-Laws
• Proposal would allow three-family dwellings in T districts
• Petitioners: Seidman, TMM2 et al.
• Subcommittee deliberation and vote scheduled

The Land Use, Zoning and Sustainability Subcommittee voted to refer Warrant Article 9 to the Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee. The proposal sought to allow three-family dwellings in all T Districts with the same dimensional requirements as two-family uses.

• Referred Warrant Article 9 to the Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee (3-1-1)

Committee on Town Organization & Structure

The Committee on Town Organization & Structure will discuss and possibly vote on Article 5, a bylaw to establish a Brookline Youth Council. The council would consist of nine members aged 14-18 (or 24) who are Brookline residents or enrolled in a Brookline high school, appointed by the Select Board for one-year terms. The agenda also includes other business.

• Discussion and possible vote on Article 5, Bylaw to establish Brookline Youth Council
• Youth Council would have nine members aged 14-18 (or 24), appointed by Select Board
• Council would hold at least nine public meetings per year
• Members removed after three consecutive unexcused absences
• Council duties include representing youth views and making recommendations to Select Board and Town Meeting

The Committee on Town Organization & Structure voted 4-2-1 to take no action on Warrant Article 5, which proposed establishing a Brookline Youth Council. A prior motion to refer the article to the Select Board failed 3-3-1. The committee discussed concerns about the council's structure, staffing, and purpose.

• Approved minutes of October 1, 2024 meeting (unanimous)
• Motion to refer Warrant Article 5 to Select Board failed (3-3-1)
• Motion for No Action on Warrant Article 5 passed (4-2-1)

Conservation Commission

The Brookline Conservation Commission and Tree Planting Committee are holding a joint public hearing on Warrant Article 16, which would amend the Town's General By-Laws to expand the Tree Preservation By-law to protect more trees. The commission will consider the updated article, hear a presentation from the petitioners, and review a subcommittee report before discussing and potentially voting on the article.

• Public hearing on Warrant Article 16 to amend Article 8.41 of the Town's General By-Laws
• Expansion of Tree Preservation By-law to protect more trees
• Presentation by petitioners for Warrant Article 16
• HHS Subcommittee Report on Warrant Article 16
• Potential vote on Warrant Article 16

Tree Planting Committee

The Conservation Commission and Tree Planting Committee are holding a joint meeting with a public hearing on Warrant Article 16, which would amend the Town's General By-Laws to expand the Tree Preservation By-law to protect more trees. The meeting includes a presentation by the petitioners and a report from the HHS Subcommittee, followed by discussion and a potential vote on the article.

• Public hearing on Warrant Article 16 to amend Article 8.41 of the Town's General By-Laws
• Presentation by petitioners for Warrant Article 16
• WA16 HHS Subcommittee report
• Consideration, discussion, and potential vote on Warrant Article 16

The Conservation Commission and Tree Planting Committee held a public hearing on Warrant Article 16, which proposes expanding tree protection and mitigation requirements. No vote was taken on the article; both committees will meet separately to determine if they wish to provide written comments.

• Closed public hearing on Warrant Article 16 (7-0)
• Tabled vote on providing comments for Warrant Article 16 pending separate committee meetings
• Adjourned meeting (7-0)

Advisory Committee

The Land Use, Zoning and Sustainability Subcommittee of the Brookline Advisory Committee is holding a public hearing on Warrant Article 15, which would amend the Town's Zoning By-Law (Use 51B and Section 4.05.3) to comply with state requirements in the Affordable Homes Act. The subcommittee will hear from petitioners and staff, take public comment, deliberate, and vote. This is a public hearing where all comments become part of the public record.

• Public hearing on WA 15 to amend Use 51B and Section 4.05.3 of the Zoning By-Law
• Amendment aims to comply with state Affordable Homes Act requirements
• Subcommittee vote scheduled after public comment and deliberation

The subcommittee reviewed proposed zoning changes for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) under Warrant Article 15, aimed at aligning with the state's Affordable Homes Act. No votes were taken; the subcommittee adjourned to allow further negotiations on setbacks and building conversions, with a follow-up meeting scheduled for October 24.

• No votes taken; discussion only
• Adjourned to October 24 for further talks

Library Trustees

The Brookline Library Trustees are holding a virtual meeting with a brief agenda covering committee updates and old/new business. No specific decisions, proposals, or dollar amounts are listed in the agenda, which appears to be procedural in nature.

• Committee updates
• Old and new business

School Committee

The Brookline School Committee is meeting to review and possibly vote on its draft 2024-2025 goals, roles and norms, and communications engagement norms. The committee will also consider several consent agenda items, including contract amendments and change orders for school construction projects, and a vote to allow beer and wine at a BHS Innovation Fund gala.

• Pierce School Project: Miller Dyer Spears Architects contract amendment No. 12, $8,531.60
• Driscoll School Project: Gilbane Building Company change order No. 41, $15,622.00
• Driscoll School Project: Gilbane Building Company change order No. 42, $3,022.00 credit
• Brookline High School Project: William Rawn Associates contract amendment No. 35, $9,997.00
• Possible vote to authorize beer and wine at BHS Innovation Fund GALA-RAMA on Nov 14, 2024

The Brookline School Committee approved a consent agenda of five change orders and contract amendments for the Pierce, Driscoll, and Brookline High School projects, totaling about $37,680 in net increases. It also authorized the BHS Innovation Fund to serve beer and wine at its November 14 Gala-Rama at Brookline High School, with students present. By unanimous consent, the committee adopted its 2024-2025 goals. The rest of the workshop covered equity professional development and draft roles, norms, and communications documents that were discussed but not voted on.

• Approved consent agenda of five school project change orders/amendments (8-0, Frias absent)
• Approved Pierce School Project: Miller Dyer Spears Amendment No. 12, $8,531.60 (8-0)
• Approved Pierce School Project: A&D Services Change Order No. 1, $6,550.94 (8-0)
• Approved Driscoll School Project: Gilbane Change Order No. 41, $15,622.00 (8-0)
• Approved Driscoll School Project: Gilbane Change Order No. 42, $3,022.00 credit (8-0)
• Approved BHS Project: William Rawn Associates Amendment No. 35, $9,997.00 (8-0)
• Authorized BHS Innovation Fund to serve beer and wine at Nov. 14 Gala-Rama, 7-10 PM, students present (8-0)
• Adopted 2024-2025 School Committee goals by unanimous consent

Planning Board

The Brookline Planning Board is holding a public hearing on three proposed zoning amendment warrant articles for the fall 2024 Town Meeting. These articles address dimensional requirements, height restrictions, and accessory dwelling units. The board will hear public comment before making recommendations.

• Article 14: Allow decreased setbacks by special permit between buildings on same lot in M-1.0 district if affordable unit or 2-inch DBH tree provided
• Article 7: Restrict height to 2.5 stories in select S, SC, T districts and revise definitions of Story and Half Story
• Article 15: Amend zoning to comply with state Affordable Homes Act, allowing one ADU by-right and two by special permit on single-family lots
• Article 15: Increase detached ADU height to 22 feet and 1.5 stories, increase habitable space to 50% of main dwelling, eliminate 120% FAR cap and 5-year waiting period for garage conversion

The Brookline Planning Board voted to recommend favorable action on two zoning warrant articles: Article 14 (allowing decreased setbacks by special permit in M-1.0 districts with affordable units or trees, with amendments pending the Town Moderator's ruling) and Article 7 (restricting height to 2.5 stories in select districts and revising story definitions). The board continued discussion of Article 15 (Accessory Dwelling Units) to a later meeting without a vote.

• Recommended favorable action on Article 14 (setback amendments) with amendments, 5-0-1 (Zarrillo abstained)
• Recommended favorable action on Article 7 (height restrictions and story definitions), 6-0
• Continued Article 15 (ADU zoning) to October 28, 2024, 7 PM

Advisory Committee

The Brookline Advisory Committee will hold a public meeting to discuss and possibly vote on three warrant articles: WA 16 to expand the Tree Preservation By-Law, WA 12 to add outdoor lighting standards in residential districts, and WA 13 to amend sign regulations. These items are being presented by subcommittees and may receive recommendations for Town Meeting. Public comment is welcome.

• WA 16: Amend Article 8.41 of the Town's General By-Laws to expand Tree Preservation By-Law requirements
• WA 12: Amend Zoning By-Laws to add outdoor lighting standards in residential districts
• WA 13: Amend Article VII (Signs, Illumination, and Regulated Facade Alterations) to address sign design and commercial signage
• Public comment period (5 minutes) and subcommittee public hearings on all items

The Advisory Committee voted to refer Warrant Article 16 (tree preservation) back to the subcommittee for further amendments. It also voted to refer Warrant Article 12 (outdoor lighting) back to the Planning Department to develop a companion General Bylaw. The Committee recommended favorable action on Warrant Article 13 (commercial signage) after rejecting a proposed amendment to retain stricter sign limits.

• WA 16 (Tree Preservation) referred back to subcommittee (16-5-4)
• WA 12 (Outdoor Lighting) referred back to Planning Dept (24-0-0)
• WA 13 (Signage) amendment to retain 12-inch limit failed (4-16-1)
• WA 13 (Signage) recommended for favorable action (19-0-2)

Housing Advisory Board

The Housing Advisory Board is holding a joint public hearing with the Planning Board on proposed zoning warrant articles for the Fall 2024 Town Meeting. The primary item is Article 15, which would amend the zoning by-law to comply with state Affordable Homes Act requirements for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). The hearing will occur after public hearings for Articles 14 and 7.

• Article 15: Allow one ADU by-right and two by special permit on single-family lots
• Eliminate home ownership requirement for ADUs
• Increase detached ADU height limit to 22 feet and 1.5 stories
• Increase habitable space allowance to 50% of main dwelling (from 40%)
• Remove 120% FAR cap and 5-year waiting period for garage-to-ADU conversions

The Brookline Planning Board recommended favorable action on two zoning amendments: Article 14 regarding setbacks in M-1 districts and Article 7 regarding height restrictions in residential districts. A third item, Article 15 concerning Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), was discussed but the hearing was continued to a later date. The Board also suggested amendments to Article 14 to require landscape plans instead of just tree plantings.

• Recommended Favorable Action on Article 14 (5-0-1) with suggested amendments
• Recommended Favorable Action on Article 7 (6-0) as submitted
• Continued discussion on Article 15 (ADUs) to a future meeting

School Committee

The Brookline School Policy Review Subcommittee meets on October 21, 2024, to approve minutes and discuss Climate and Sustainability Task Force draft recommendations. The subcommittee will also review and discuss the Public Schools of Brookline (PSB) Attendance Policy (J 3) and Student Code of Conduct (J 8). The meeting is scheduled to adjourn at 6:40 PM.

• Approval of minutes from the September 23, 2024 Policy Review Subcommittee meeting
• Climate and Sustainability Task Force draft recommendations
• Review and discussion of PSB Attendance Policy (J 3)
• Review and discussion of PSB Student Code of Conduct (J 8)
• Old and new business

The Brookline School Committee Policy Review Subcommittee met to review draft recommendations from the Climate and Sustainability Task Force and discuss revisions to the Attendance Policy and Student Code of Conduct. No formal votes or final approvals occurred during this subcommittee meeting. The Task Force presented draft recommendations on energy, food waste, and transportation, which are scheduled for final presentation to the full School Committee in December 2024. The subcommittee discussed potential changes to the Attendance Policy, including adding academic consequences for excessive absenteeism, and assigned a member to draft a revised policy for the December meeting.

• Climate and Sustainability Task Force presented draft recommendations for review
• Attendance Policy revision discussed; Dr. Liu assigned to draft revised policy
• Student Code of Conduct review deferred to next meeting
• No formal votes or approvals recorded

Advisory Council of Public Health

The Advisory Council of Public Health holds a public hearing on two Warrant Articles: WA 18, a petition for a special act to restrict second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (SGARs), and WA 9, a zoning change to allow a dwelling on a separate lot for three families in a two-family zone. The council will also approve minutes from its 9/16/24 meeting and hear director and division reports. A memo from the Public Health Director and Public Works Commissioner notes that further SGAR restrictions would make rodent control harder and that private use is hard to regulate.

• WA 18: petition for a special act to allow restriction of Second-Generation Anticoagulants Rodenticides (SGARs), with presentation, discussion, and potential vote
• WA 9: amend Section 4.07 Table of Use Regulations and Table 5.01 Dimensional Requirements of the Brookline Zoning By-Law to allow a dwelling on a separate lot for three families in a two-family zone
• Approval of ACPH meeting minutes from 9/16/24
• Public comment period; speakers may sign up in advance via the Select Board's office at 617-730-2202 or [email protected]
• Director's and Division reports (ACPH Reports Oct 21)

The Brookline Advisory Council of Public Health heard presentations on two warrant articles but took no formal votes. On WA18, which would seek home rule authority to restrict SGAR rodenticides, the board leaned toward drafting a statement encouraging statewide regulation rather than supporting the local petition. On WA9, which would allow three-family dwellings in two-family zones, members expressed support and planned to draft a statement of support for the following week. The meeting was otherwise procedural, with no substantive decisions made.

• Approved September 16, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Deferred vote on WA18 (SGAR restriction) to draft statement encouraging state regulation
• Deferred vote on WA9 (three-family zoning) to draft statement of support
• Adjourned at 7:36 PM

Commission for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Community Relations

The Immigrant Advancement Committee of Brookline's Commission for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Community Relations meets remotely on Monday, October 21, 2024 at 6:00 PM. The agenda includes approving September minutes, updates and new business, and a review of timing for printing and the distribution plan for a Welcome Booklet. The committee will also continue discussion of new projects and future work, then wrap up with action steps and confirm its next meeting time.

• Vote to approve September meeting minutes
• Updates on the Welcome Booklet, including printing timing and distribution plan review
• Continuing discussion of new projects and future work
• Setting action steps and confirming the next meeting time

The Immigrant Advancement Committee approved the September minutes and discussed updates on the Welcome Booklet, which has been sent to print with distribution planned for Town Hall, libraries, and community sites. Members also explored a new project idea, 'Brookline: Your Immigrant Story,' featuring student photo portraits and a library exhibit, with potential collaboration with the Brookline Arts Center. No formal votes were taken on new projects.

• Approved September minutes (5-0)
• Welcome Booklet sent to print, expected in 2 weeks
• Distribution plan set: ODEICR, Town Hall, libraries, Senior Center, United Parish
• Press release to be prepared for early November
• Discussed 'Brookline: Your Immigrant Story' project, no vote

Community Preservation Act Committee

The Community Preservation Act Committee meets virtually on Monday, October 21, 2024 at 6:30 PM to approve its September 9 minutes, get a status update on grant agreements and a memorandum of agreement, and hear applicant presentations on 12 projects. A separate set of six applicants presents for the committee's November 18 meeting. The committee also discusses a recent Attorney General opinion on sub-committee meetings. The public is encouraged to join.

• Grant agreements/MOA signed: All Saints Parish, Friends of Hall's Pond, Pocket Park, Tree Inventory, Larz Anderson
• Still awaiting signatures: all three BCDC projects, BHA Walnut/High and Egmont Street Roof Replacement, Devotion House Window Repair
• Oct 21 presentations include Pierce School Friezes, Amory Boardwalk restoration, Eliot community garden design, Coolidge and Ridley tennis court designs, invasive species removal at D. Blakely Hoar, Hall's Pond and Riverway Park, Larz Anderson outdoor ice rink design, Minot Trellis design, Foster Fence restoration at Old Burying Ground, and tree pruning inventory at various parks
• Nov 18 presentations: Temple Ohabei Shalom Dome Restoration, Historic Chemical Firehouse restoration, Phase I Archives Pilot Program & Action Plan, Brookline Golf Course Clubhouse window restoration, Putterham Woods Trail Enhancement – Trail Heads, Putterham Golf Course composting restrooms
• Other business: recent Attorney General opinion regarding sub-committee meetings

The Community Preservation Act Committee approved its September 9, 2024 minutes (5-0, one abstention) and received status updates on previously awarded grants, several of which remain unsigned. The bulk of the meeting was applicant presentations: 12 requests totaling roughly $2 million for historic restoration, recreation, and open space projects, including $1.2M for Larz Anderson ice rink design and $225,000 for the Amory Boardwalk. No funding decisions were made; the committee also noted upcoming presentations for November 18 and said it will follow new Attorney General guidance on open meeting rules for working groups.

• Approved 9-9-24 minutes (5-0, Clara abstained)
• Received status update: All Saints Parish, Friends of Hall's Pond, Pocket Park, Tree Inventory, Larz Anderson agreements signed
• Heard that BCDC, BHA Walnut/High, Egmont Street roof, and Devotion House agreements remain unsigned
• Heard 12 applicant presentations totaling about $2M in requests; no votes taken
• Scheduled applicant presentations for November 18 meeting
• Noted AG guidance requiring working groups to comply with Open Meeting Law
• Adjourned (all in favor)

Open Space & Recreation Plan Committee

The Infrastructure & Resource Subcommittee of the Brookline Open Space & Recreation Plan Committee is meeting to discuss, edit, and compile the 2025 Needs Analysis, using the 2018 OSRP Section 7, the state workbook, and a worksheet. They will also approve minutes from the July 23, 2024 meeting and outline next steps.

• Approval of minutes from 7.23.24 subcommittee meeting
• Discussion and editing of 2025 OSRP Needs Analysis
• Review of Brookline 2018 OSRP Section 7 - Needs Analysis
• Review of OSRP State Workbook Section 7 - Needs Analysis
• Use of Needs Analysis Worksheet

Housing Advisory Board

The Brookline Housing Advisory Board meets remotely on Friday, October 18, 2024 at 12:00 PM. The agenda lists one substantive item: further discussion and potential votes on the board's earlier recommendation to use $7.5M of Affordable Housing Trust Fund money for the BHA Walnut-High project, including seeking funding from the CPA. The agenda also lists board members and remote Zoom and call-in access details.

• Potential vote on recommending $7.5M from the Affordable Housing Trust Fund for the BHA Walnut-High project
• Project addresses listed: 94-12 Walnut St, 16-24 Walnut St, 28-42 Walnut St, 22 High St
• Discussion of seeking funding from the CPA (Community Preservation Act)
• Meeting held remotely via Zoom; call-in option available

School Committee

The Government Relations Subcommittee of the Brookline School Committee meets on October 17, 2024. Members will review and possibly vote on Massachusetts Association of School Committees (MASC) resolutions and on MA Ballot Question 2, which concerns eliminating MCAS as a graduation requirement. The agenda also includes approval of minutes from the September 19, 2024 meeting and an old and new business segment. No specific dollar amounts or contracts are listed.

• Possible vote on MASC resolutions
• Possible vote on MA Ballot Question 2: Elimination of MCAS as a Graduation Requirement
• Approval of minutes from September 19, 2024 meeting
• Old and New Business
• Meeting held via Zoom at 5:00 PM

The Government Relations Subcommittee voted unanimously to recommend that the School Committee support a 'Yes' vote on Massachusetts Ballot Question 2, which would eliminate MCAS as a graduation requirement. They also reviewed MASC resolutions and made recommendations on each, including supporting resolutions on safe storage of firearms, school bus stop arm surveillance, and full funding for foster care transportation. The subcommittee did not take final action on any item; all recommendations go to the full School Committee.

• Recommended support for 'Yes' on Question 2 (3-0)
• Recommended support for MASC Resolution 3: Safe Storage of Firearms
• Recommended support for MASC Resolution 4: School Bus Stop Arm Surveillance Act
• Recommended support for MASC Resolution 7: Fully Adjusting Chapter 70 Aid for Inflation
• Recommended support for MASC expiring resolution: Banning Polystyrene from Schools
• Recommended support for MASC expiring resolution: Full Funding of Transportation Costs for Students in Foster Care
• Recommended support for MASC expiring resolution: Access to Menstrual Supplies
• Recommended support for MASC expiring resolution: Charter School Reform

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Brookline Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a virtual public hearing on October 17, 2024, to consider several cases under M.G.L. Chapter 40A. The board will review applications for additions, a multi-family building, and a modification to a prior case, and will also vote on authorizing the chair to approve minutes for hearings. One case, 73 Beverly Road, is to be continued without discussion to November 14.

• 73 Beverly Road: alteration and pool, continued to 11/14 without discussion
• 10-12 Greenway Court: vertical addition for four units plus basement unit (modification to CASE NO. 2013-0004)
• 97-103 University Road: three-story multi-family building with nine dwelling units
• 46 Eliot Crescent: second-story addition for single-family home
• Vote on authorizing chair to approve minutes for hearings

The Brookline Zoning Board of Appeals voted unanimously to grant special permits and variances for a project at 10-12 Greenway Court, allowing a vertical addition to create four new dwelling units and one basement unit. The board also approved a special permit for a nine-unit affordable housing development at 97-103 University Road, and approved zoning relief for a second-story addition at 46 Eliot Crescent. The board continued the hearing for 73 Beverly Road to November 14, 2024.

• Granted special permits and variances for 10-12 Greenway Court (unanimous)
• Approved special permit for 97-103 University Road (unanimous)
• Approved zoning relief for 46 Eliot Crescent (unanimous)
• Continued 73 Beverly Road hearing to 11/14/2024 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from 8/22/2024 (unanimous)
• Authorized chair to approve hearing minutes via email (unanimous)

Washington Street Design Review Committee

The Washington Street Design Review Committee meets Thursday, October 17, 2024 at 6:00 PM to continue reviewing the Washington Street redesign project. Members will hear feedback from the October 10 neighborhood site walk, discuss the critical intersections at Washington Street at Park Street and Washington Street at Harvard Street in Brookline Village, and continue an alternatives analysis for Washington Street from Holden Street to Harvard Street. The agenda also includes review of corridor segments, design recommendations, and public comment.

• Presentation and discussion on Washington Street at Park Street intersection
• Presentation and discussion on Washington Street at Harvard Street (Brookline Village) intersection
• Continued alternatives analysis for Washington Street from Holden Street to Harvard Street
• Feedback from the October 10 neighborhood site walk
• Review of corridor segments along Washington Street and design recommendations

Select Board

The Brookline Select Board is holding a licensing hearing on Wednesday, October 16, 2024 at 10:00 AM. The board will consider a transfer of an Open-Air license to 70 Francis St. LLC, a new All Alcoholic Beverages License for Brookline Ramen, LLC d/b/a Kyuramen at 1008 Beacon Street, and several alternate manager applications for local businesses. It will also review changes of lodging agents at 1750 Beacon Street and 229 Kent Street, and approve minutes from August 14, 2024.

• Public hearing on transferring the Open-Air license to 70 Francis St. LLC
• Application for an All Alcoholic Beverages License for Brookline Ramen, LLC d/b/a Kyuramen at 1008 Beacon Street; proposed manager Min Yan; alcohol service Monday–Sunday 10:30AM–10:00PM
• Alternate manager applications: Zhengjun Liu (Kyuramen), Yumei Wang and Lihui Li (Northeast Eating Club, 320 Washington Street), Daniel West (Courtyard by Marriott - Brookline, 40 Webster Street), Monyque Reis (Barcelona Wine Bar, 1700 Beacon Street)
• Change of Lodging Agent from Daniel Emmans to Alex Grenier at 1750 Beacon Street
• Change of Lodging Agent from Andrew Richard to Peter Perry at 229 Kent Street

The Brookline Select Board approved the transfer of an open-air license to 70 Francis St. LLC, contingent on building department sign-off by October 29, 2024. The Board also approved an all-alcoholic beverages license for Brookline Ramen, LLC (Kyuramen) and approved changes to alternate managers and lodging agents for five other local businesses. No vote tallies were recorded in the minutes.

• Approved August 14, 2024 meeting minutes
• Approved open-air license transfer to 70 Francis St. LLC (conditional on building dept sign-off by Oct 29)
• Approved All Alcoholic Beverages License for Brookline Ramen, LLC (Kyuramen)
• Approved Alternate Manager applications for Kyuramen, Northeast Eating Club, Courtyard by Marriott, and Barcelona Wine Bar
• Approved change of Lodging Agent at 1750 Beacon Street (subject to health test)
• Approved change of Lodging Agent at 229 Kent Street (subject to training)

Advisory Committee

The Human Services Subcommittee of Brookline's Advisory Committee meets Wednesday, October 16, 2024 at 12:00 PM. It will continue discussion from October 7 and October 10 and may vote on WA 16, a proposal to amend Article 8.41 of the Town's General By-Laws to expand the requirements of the Tree Preservation By-Law (Plazonja, et al.). This is a public meeting, not a public hearing; members of the public may attend but will not be able to comment during the meeting, though written comments are accepted before the hearing.

• Possible vote on WA 16 to amend Article 8.41 of the Town's General By-Laws and expand the Tree Preservation By-Law (Plazonja, et al.)
• Continued discussion carried over from meetings on Monday, October 7 and Thursday, October 10
• Written comments accepted until 12 noon the day before the hearing via the subcommittee chair or [email protected]
• Public may attend but cannot offer comments during this public meeting
• Item listed as 'Other Business' with no details provided

The Human Services Subcommittee voted unanimously (5-0) to recommend favorable action on Warrant Article 16, an amended Tree Preservation Bylaw. The amendments included a 50% condo owner threshold for financial hardship exemptions and retaining the word 'person' in the penalty section. The subcommittee discussed implementation costs, estimated at $272,000 annually plus $125,000 for two electric vehicles, but no member opposed the article on cost grounds.

• Voted 5-0 for favorable action on Warrant Article 16, as amended
• Agreed to reduce financial hardship exemption threshold for condos from two-thirds to 50% of owners
• Retained 'person' in penalty section instead of substituting 'property owner'
• Agreed to proceed without an explicit definition of 'structure'

Advisory Committee

The Capital Subcommittee of Brookline's Advisory Committee meets Wednesday, October 16, 2024 at 5:00 PM. The agenda lists one substantive item: discussion of the CIP (Capital Improvement Program) Policy with Deputy Town Administrator Melissa Goff, plus an 'other business' slot. This is a public meeting, but the public is invited to attend only and will not be able to comment on items under consideration. No votes, dollar amounts, or specific projects appear on the agenda.

• Discussion of the CIP (Capital Improvement Program) Policy with Deputy Town Administrator Melissa Goff
• Other business (no details listed)
• Public invited to attend only; no public comment period at this meeting
• Subcommittee public hearings are held separately on matters the Advisory Committee recommends to Town Meeting

The Capital Subcommittee of Brookline's Advisory Committee met to discuss the town's current Capital Improvement Program (CIP) policies. Melissa Goff presented fiscal policy changes approved by the Select Board, including raising the target for unreserved fund balance from 10% to 20% of prior-year net revenues. Anthony Buono described his proposal to the Select Board on alternative ways to target Free Cash investments into the Affordable Housing Trust Fund. Carol Levin presented a draft memo of questions and concerns from the spring 2024 CIP process. The minutes record no votes or formal decisions by the subcommittee.

• No formal decisions or votes recorded; meeting was discussion-only
• Select Board previously approved raising unreserved fund balance target from 10% to 20% of prior-year net revenues (per staff presentation)
• Select Board goal is to reach median of AAA communities, approximately 37% (per staff presentation)
• Anthony Buono presented a proposal to the Select Board on 10/15/24 on alternative ways to target Free Cash for the Affordable Housing Trust Fund
• Carol Levin presented a draft memo of Capital Subcommittee questions and concerns from the spring 2024 CIP process

Transportation Board

The Brookline Transportation Board meets on October 16, 2024 at 6:30 PM to act on a consent agenda of parking and crosswalk changes and to discuss several traffic and parking items. Action items include an accessible parking space on Beech Road requested by David J. Jensen, Trustee of the Platform 9 ¾ Trust, Russett Road traffic calming, and permit parking on Monmouth Street and Monmouth Court. The Board will also discuss appointments to the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committees and possible changes to the Traffic Calming Policy.

• Consent agenda: crosswalk installation on Fisher Ave at Holland Rd and Buckminster Rd at Holland Rd
• Converting two taxi stand spaces at 1624 Beacon St to metered parking 8AM-8PM with a 3 hour limit
• Converting one taxi stand space at 21 Cypress St to a no parking loading zone
• Increasing overnight parking spaces from 16 to 24 at Lot 10 Washington Sq (1806-1822 Beacon St)
• Discussion and action on accessible parking space on Beech Road requested by David J. Jensen, Trustee of the Platform 9 ¾ Trust

The Transportation Board approved its consent agenda as presented, covering crosswalk installations on Fisher Ave, conversion of taxi stands to metered parking and a loading zone, removal of accessible spaces at 84 Lawton St and 7 Chatham St, an increase in overnight parking at Lot 10 Washington Sq, and a request for an additional accessible space on Station St. The board also discussed several items including an accessible parking request on Beech Road, traffic calming on Russett Road, and permit parking changes on Monmouth Street, but the minutes do not record final votes on these. The board adjourned after other business.

• Approved consent agenda as presented, including September 18, 2024 minutes
• Approved crosswalk installation on Fisher Ave at Holland Rd and Buckminster Rd at Holland Rd
• Approved converting two taxi stand spaces at 1624 Beacon St to metered parking 8AM-8PM with a 3-hour limit
• Approved converting one taxi stand space at 21 Cypress St to a no parking loading zone
• Approved removal of accessible parking space at 84 Lawton St
• Approved removal of accessible parking space at 7 Chatham St
• Approved increasing overnight parking spaces from 16 to 24 at Lot 10 Washington Sq (1806-1822 Beacon St)
• Approved request for an additional accessible parking space on Station Street

Bicycle Advisory Committee

The Brookline Bicycle Advisory Committee meets Wednesday, October 16, 2024 at 7:00 PM in a hybrid session at Town Hall and via Zoom. The agenda includes routine business (introductions, a police report, open projects, member updates), a status update on the Washington Street Complete Streets Project, and interviews of committee candidates. No votes, contracts, or dollar amounts are listed in the agenda.

• Washington Street Complete Streets Project status update at 7:30 PM
• Committee candidate interviews at 7:45 PM
• Police report under routine business
• Open projects and member updates
• Hybrid meeting: 4th Floor, Brookline Town Hall or Zoom (Meeting ID: 161 237 9711)

The Brookline Bicycle Advisory Committee met and received a police report noting 5 crashes, with discussion on creating a public crash dashboard and regulating truck sizes on town streets. No formal votes or decisions were recorded; items were discussed, including project updates and candidate interviews.

• Discussed creation of interactive public crash dashboard (no action)
• Discussed regulating truck sizes on town streets (no action)
• Noted Green Routes Bike Network Plan awaiting consultant scope and fee
• Noted Brookline High School Pilot on hold
• Interviewed candidates Arjun, Jason, and Scott (no outcome recorded)

Open Space & Recreation Plan Committee

The Open Space Protection and Zoning Subcommittee of Brookline's Open Space & Recreation Plan Committee meets on October 16, 2024 at 7:00 PM via Zoom. Members will discuss, edit, and compile the 2025 OSRP Needs Analysis, working from a needs analysis worksheet, the 2018 OSRP Section 7, and the state workbook's Section 7. The agenda also includes approval of the July 1, 2024 meeting minutes and a next-steps discussion before adjournment.

• Approval of the Open Space Protection & Zoning Subcommittee 7.1.24 meeting minutes
• Discussion, editing, and compiling of the 2025 OSRP Needs Analysis
• Review of the Needs Analysis Worksheet
• Reference to Brookline 2018 OSRP Section 7 - Needs Analysis
• Reference to OSRP State Workbook Section 7 - Needs Analysis

The Open Space Protection and Zoning Subcommittee met to develop the Needs Analysis section for the 2025 Open Space & Recreation Plan. They approved the July 1, 2024 meeting minutes unanimously. The group discussed and compiled a range of needs, including park maintenance, watershed protection, recreation facilities, and green infrastructure, but made no final decisions on the plan's content.

• Approved July 1, 2024 subcommittee meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Discussed and compiled needs for the 2025 OSRP Needs Analysis (no formal vote)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

School Committee

The Communications Group of the Brookline School Committee is holding a one-hour meeting on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, starting at 1:00 PM, with adjournment scheduled for 2:00 PM. The agenda lists a discussion of communications practices, followed by old and new business. The meeting can be joined via Zoom or by phone. No specific decisions, contracts, or dollar amounts appear on the agenda.

• Discussion of Communications Practices
• Old and New Business
• Adjournment scheduled for 2:00 PM
• Meeting accessible via Zoom (Meeting ID: 161 767 5664) or by phone at 646 828 7666
• ADA accommodations contact: Sarah E. Kaplan, [email protected], 617-730-2329

A four-member Communications Group met remotely and discussed ideas for School Committee outreach, folding them into a revised draft of Communications and Engagement Norms. The draft, which covers a webpage overhaul, post-meeting newsletters, community forums, and an email-response protocol, will go to the full School Committee at the October 22, 2024 Workshop for review, discussion, and possible adoption. No votes or formal decisions were recorded at this meeting.

• No substantive decisions or votes recorded; group discussed outreach ideas only
• Revised Communications and Engagement Norms draft to be presented to full School Committee on October 22, 2024 for possible adoption
• Proposed new School Committee webpage with 'Contact the School Committee' content; PSB Communications Specialist Neel Gudka to create page
• Proposed post-meeting newsletter to parents/guardians and staff; Betsy Fitzpatrick to draft template with Gudka
• Proposed community forums/Q&A; meetings with a quorum would require public notice
• Communications Group to alternate hosting monthly Parent Leader Meetings with Superintendent Guillory

Pierce School Building Committee

The Pierce School Building Committee meets Tuesday, October 15, 2024 at 4:00 PM. The committee will hear construction, schedule, and budget updates from Consigli, and is scheduled to vote on submitting the 90% Construction Documents package to the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA). Members will also review the School Relocation Budget and receive a PFAS update. The agenda includes time for public comment and adjournment at 5:30 PM.

• Vote to submit 90% CD Package to MSBA
• Construction, schedule, and budget updates from Consigli
• Review of School Relocation Budget
• PFAS update
• Approval of meeting minutes

The committee voted unanimously (12-0) to approve and submit the 90% Construction Document set for the Pierce School project to the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA). The 90% cost estimate is $167,385,761, slightly lower than the 60% estimate. The committee also approved the June meeting minutes and reviewed the school relocation budget, which totals $1.5M.

• Approved 90% Construction Document submission to MSBA (12-0)
• Approved June meeting minutes (unanimous, Charles Carey abstaining)
• Reviewed $1.5M school relocation budget; moving costs exceeded estimates, transportation costs lower than estimated

Advisory Committee

The Public Safety Subcommittee of Brookline's Advisory Committee meets Tuesday, October 15, 2024 at 5:00 PM for a public hearing. The subcommittee will discuss and possibly vote on WA 12, which would add outdoor lighting standards for residential districts to the Town's Zoning By-Laws, and WA 13, which would amend Article VII on signs, illumination, and regulated facade alterations to address sign design and commercial signage. Both items come from Planning & Community Development. The public may attend but will not comment during the meeting; written comments go to the subcommittee chair or [email protected] by noon the day before the hearing.

• WA 12: proposed amendment adding outdoor lighting standards in residential districts to the Zoning By-Laws
• WA 13: proposed amendment to Article VII (Signs, Illumination, and Regulated Facade Alterations) on sign design and commercial signage
• Public hearing with discussion and possible votes on both items
• Written public comments due by 12 noon the day before the hearing to the subcommittee chair or [email protected]
• Meeting held via Zoom; ADA accommodations via Sarah E. Kaplan, 617-730-2329

The Advisory Committee Public Safety Subcommittee voted 4-0 (1 abstention) to recommend favorable action on Warrant Article 13, the sign design and commercial signage zoning amendment, as amended by the Planning Department. A motion to reduce the allowable banner and projecting sign extension from 3 feet to 18 inches failed 1-2 (1 abstention). On Warrant Article 12, the outdoor lighting amendment, the Chair said the subcommittee appeared to be leaning toward maintaining its earlier recommendation of referral back to the Planning Department, so no new vote was taken.

• Recommended favorable action on Warrant Article 13 (sign design/commercial signage), as amended by the Planning Department (4-0, 1 abstention)
• Motion to reduce banner and projecting sign extension from 3 feet to 18 inches failed (1-2, 1 abstention)
• No new vote taken on Warrant Article 12 (outdoor lighting); Chair said subcommittee appeared to lean toward its earlier recommendation of referral back to the Planning Department
• Planning Department agreed to remove proposed change allowing illuminated projecting and banner signs from WA13
• Planning Department agreed to continue sending electronic notices
• WA13 wording changed so Planning Board looks to Town Sign Design Guidelines instead of the word 'appropriate'
• WA13 Section 7.04.1.d wording changed from 'logo or lettering' to 'sign'
• Planning Department declined to commit to consulting Preservation staff on all sign applications

Select Board

The Brookline Select Board meets Tuesday, October 15, 2024 at 5:30 PM to consider committing $7.5 million in Affordable Housing Trust funds to phase I of the Brookline Housing Authority's Walnut High Apartments redevelopment, which would include 96 affordable housing units. The Board will also hold public hearings and possible votes on several warrant articles for the November 19, 2024 Special Town Meeting, covering zoning changes on building height, outdoor lighting, signs, and separate building ownership. Other items include a $25,000 DHS UASI cybersecurity grant, temporary alcohol licenses, and interviews for the Age-Friendly Cities Committee and Park and Recreation Commission. Two executive sessions are scheduled for real property negotiations involving Walnut High Apartments and Coolidge Corner Theatre, and for approving prior executive session minutes.

• $7.5 million in Affordable Housing Trust funds proposed for phase I of Walnut High Apartments redevelopment (96 affordable units)
• Revised Payment in Lieu of Tax (PILOT) Agreement with Brookline Housing Authority for tax-exempt financing
• Proposed waiver of building and demolition permit fees for the Walnut High project
• $25,000 DHS UASI cybersecurity grant for a one-year Security Scorecard subscription
• Warrant Article 7: restrict height to 2.5 stories in select S, SC, and T Districts for the November 19 Special Town Meeting

The Select Board voted to commit $7.5 million from the Affordable Housing Trust Fund to Phase I of the Brookline Housing Authority's Walnut High Apartments redevelopment, a 96-unit affordable housing project, subject to conditions including securing permits and funding. The Board also amended the PILOT agreement for the property and waived building and demolition permit fees for both project phases. In other business, the Board approved a $25,000 cybersecurity grant, several hires and licenses, and voted 3-2 for a 'no recommendation' on a Town Meeting resolution regarding a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Several zoning warrant articles for the November Special Town Meeting were discussed with no votes taken.

• Committed $7.5M in Affordable Housing Trust funds to Phase I (96 units) of Walnut High Apartments redevelopment, with conditions (5-0)
• Amended PILOT agreement for Walnut High Apartments to reflect 96-unit Phase I and 85-unit Phase II (5-0)
• Waived building and demolition permit fees for both phases of Walnut High project, with conditions (5-0)
• Approved $25,000 DHS UASI cybersecurity grant for one-year Security Scorecard subscription (5-0)
• Approved Authorization to Hire for PSBO Business Manager (T9) (5-0)
• Approved Authorization to Hire for Leave & Disability Specialist (T06) (5-0)
• Approved special permit for Boston Athletic Association half-marathon on Nov 10, 2024 (5-0)
• Voted 3-2 'no recommendation' on Warrant Article 20 ceasefire resolution; motion to table failed 2-3

Building Commission

The Brookline Building Commission holds its monthly hybrid meeting on October 15, 2024, at 6:00 PM at Town Hall and via Zoom. Members will review project status and vote on requisitions and change orders for the Driscoll and Pierce school projects, Brookline High School's 3rd floor renovation and tunnel project, Fire Stations 1 and 4, and the Police Locker Room. The agenda also includes a vote on Director of Facilities bills related to capital construction and Procore requisitions. The meeting is scheduled to end with a request to enter executive session to discuss litigation strategy regarding claims about the 22 Tappan St Building HVAC System, after which the Commission will adjourn and not return to open session.

• Vote on requisitions and change orders for the Driscoll and Pierce school projects
• Pierce project discussion of crossing guard and relocation budget
• Brookline High School 3rd floor renovation (Lambrian) and tunnel project status and votes
• Fire Stations 1 and 4 and Police Locker Room status updates and requisition votes
• Executive session on litigation strategy for 22 Tappan St Building HVAC System claims

Park & Recreation Commission

The Brookline Park and Recreation Commission meets Tuesday, October 15, 2024 at 6:00 PM via Zoom. The commission will hold a public hearing and vote on the Eliot Community Garden application for Community Preservation Act (CPA) funding, and will discuss and vote on an Outdoor Public Pool Facility Feasibility Study. It will also vote on commissioner roles and responsibilities and receive updates from the Parks and Open Space Division and Recreation Department.

• Public hearing and vote on the Eliot Community Garden Project CPA application
• Discussion and vote on an Outdoor Public Pool Facility Feasibility Study, with public comment
• Vote on Commissioner Roles and Responsibilities
• Approval of September 10, 2024 meeting minutes
• Updates from Parks and Open Space Division, Recreation Department, and subcommittees

The Park and Recreation Commission approved the Community Preservation Act application for the Eliot Street Community Garden project following a public hearing. The commission also voted not to move forward with an outdoor public pool facility feasibility study at this time, citing a lack of available space determined by the select board. Additionally, the commission discussed commissioner roles and responsibilities without taking a vote, and received updates from staff and subcommittees.

• Approved September 10, 2024 meeting minutes as amended
• Approved CPA application for funding for the Eliot Street Community Garden project
• Passed motion not to move forward with the outdoor pool feasibility study

Advisory Committee

The Brookline Advisory Committee meets on Tuesday, October 15, 2024 at 7:00 PM to hear presentations and hold possible votes on three Town Meeting warrant articles amending the town's zoning by-laws. The items cover Harvard Street Form-Based Zones (WA 10), a Zoning Board of Appeals waiver of minimum lot size for converting single-family buildings to two-family units in SC or T Districts (WA 8), and separate ownership of buildings on the same lot (WA 14). The agenda also includes roll call and a 5-minute public comment period.

• WA 10: Amend Article XI (Harvard Street Form-Based Zones) to expand allowed exterior materials, add flexibility for exterior elements, and comply with State Law
• WA 8: Amend Section 5.05 to let the Zoning Board of Appeals waive minimum lot size for converting single-family buildings into two-family units in SC or T Districts (Wu, TMM7)
• WA 14: Amend Section 5.03 to allow separate ownership of buildings on the same lot
• Public comment limited to 5 minutes and to matters specific to this agenda
• Written comments due to [email protected] by noon on the day of the meeting

The Brookline Advisory Committee voted on three zoning warrant articles. It recommended favorable action on WA 10 (Harvard Street Form-Based Code updates) by 22-0 with 1 abstention. It recommended referring WA 8 (lot size waiver for two-family conversions) to the Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee by 15-6 with 4 abstentions. It also recommended referring WA 14 (separate ownership of buildings on same lot) to the Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee by 20-2 with 2 abstentions.

• Recommended favorable action on WA 10 to update Harvard Street Form-Based Code (22-0, 1 abstention)
• Recommended referral of WA 8 on lot size waivers to Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee (15-6, 4 abstentions)
• Recommended referral of WA 14 on separate building ownership to Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee (20-2, 2 abstentions)

Planning Board

The Brookline Planning Board is holding a public hearing on four proposed zoning amendment warrant articles for the Fall 2024 Town Meeting. The articles address exterior materials and design flexibility in the Harvard Street Form-Based Zones, blade and banner signs, and allowing a three-family dwelling on a separate lot in a two-family zone. The board is taking public comment; no votes or decisions are recorded in this agenda.

• Article 10: amend Article XI, Harvard Street Form-Based Zones, to expand allowed exterior materials and modify rules for state-law compliance
• Article 11: let the Planning Board, after a public hearing, allow design substitutions substantially consistent with Chap. 11-4 massing and facade rules
• Article 13: amend Art. VII sign rules covering blade and banner sign projection, top-of-building signs for primary tenants by special permit, and free-standing sign setbacks
• Article 9: amend Section 4.07 and Table 5.01 to allow a dwelling on a separate lot for three families in a two-family zone
• Full warrant article text available at brooklinema.gov/3599 or the Planning Department, 3rd floor of Town Hall, 333 Washington Street

The Brookline Planning Board held a public hearing and voted unanimously to recommend favorable action on four zoning by-law amendments. These include updates to Harvard Street form-based zones for exterior materials (Article 10), allowing substitutions with findings (Article 11), relaxing signage restrictions (Article 13), and allowing three-family dwellings in two-family zones (Article 9). All votes were unanimous, with one member absent for the first two articles.

• Recommended Favorable Action on Article 10 (Harvard Street exterior materials) (5-0)
• Recommended Favorable Action on Article 11 (Harvard Street substitutions) (5-0)
• Recommended Favorable Action on Article 13 (signage restrictions) (6-0)
• Recommended Favorable Action on Article 9 (three-family dwellings in two-family zones) (6-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Brookline Zoning Board of Appeals meets virtually on Tuesday, October 15, 2024 at 7:00 PM for a public hearing under M.G.L. Chapter 40B. The single agenda item is a request to extend the Coolidge Residences of Brookline, LLC (40B) matter through Tuesday, October 13, 2025, and to extend the close of the hearing from April 13, 2025 to April 9, 2026 under 760 CMR 56.05(3), continuing the public hearing process on the pending application. The properties involved are 8-10 Waldo St., 10-18 Pleasant St. and 16 John St. Public testimony will be taken during the hearing.

• Time extension/continuation request for the Coolidge Residences of Brookline, LLC 40B comprehensive permit
• Properties: 8-10 Waldo St., 10-18 Pleasant St. and 16 John St.
• Requested extension through Tuesday, October 13, 2025
• Requested extension of close of hearing from April 13, 2025 to April 9, 2026 under 760 CMR 56.05(3)
• Public testimony taken during the hearing; advance written comments to Nicole Pare at [email protected]

Housing Advisory Board

The Brookline Housing Advisory Board is holding a joint public hearing with the Planning Board on a proposed zoning amendment for the Fall 2024 Town Meeting. The amendment, Article 9, would change the zoning by-law to allow a dwelling on a separate lot for three families in a two-family zone. The hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, October 15, 2024 at 7:00 PM, though it will likely occur after hearings on Articles 10, 11, and 13.

• Article 9: Amend Section 4.07 and Table 5.01 to allow three-family dwellings on separate lots in two-family zones
• Submitted by Katha Seidman, Jonathan Klein, Alexander Lebovitz, Charles Homer, and Jeff Wachter
• Joint public hearing during the Planning Board meeting
• Full warrant articles available online or at the Brookline Planning Department, 333 Washington Street

The Brookline Planning Board voted unanimously to recommend favorable action on Warrant Article 12, which adds outdoor lighting standards for residential districts, with amendments specifying dark-sky certified luminaires and exempting main entrances. The board also unanimously supported Article 8, which would allow waiving minimum lot size for certain dwelling conversions by special permit. For Article 16, the board voted to support an amended tree preservation bylaw that adds an exemption for 100% affordable housing projects, with a split vote on the original article.

• Supported Article 12 (outdoor lighting standards) with amendments for dark-sky certified luminaires and main entrance exemption (unanimous)
• Supported Article 8 (conversion lot size waiver) as proposed (unanimous)
• Supported Article 16 (tree preservation expansion) with 100% affordable housing exemption (unanimous)
• Approved Article 16 as written (4-1, with 1 abstention)

Conservation Commission

The Brookline Conservation Commission meets Tuesday, October 15, 2024 at 7:00 PM to review a Notice of Intent for master plan and drainage renovations at the Robert T Lynch Municipal Golf Course, 1281 W Roxbury Pkwy. The agenda also includes a Certificate of Compliance review for 280 Warren St, a staff update, an Open Space & Recreation Plan update, and a transition update. The meeting is held via Zoom and begins with review of the September 24, 2024 minutes.

• Notice of Intent review for 1281 W Roxbury Pkwy: Robert T Lynch Municipal Golf Course master plan and drainage renovations, including permitting plans, project plan, and hydrologic & hydraulic analysis
• Certificate of Compliance review at 280 Warren St
• Open Space & Recreation Plan update
• Staff update and transition update
• Review of Conservation Commission meeting minutes from 9.24.24

The Commission continued the public hearing for the Robert T Lynch Municipal Golf Course Master Plan and Drainage Renovations Notice of Intent to November 19, 2024, after reviewing the proposal. It also approved a letter of support for the Amory Woods Boardwalk Renovation CPA Project. The meeting included updates on various construction projects and the Open Space and Recreation Plan.

• Continued public hearing for 1281 W Roxbury Pkwy NOI to Nov 19, 2024 (5-0)
• Approved letter of support for Amory Woods Boardwalk Renovation CPA Project (5-0)
• Approved minutes of 9.24.2024 meeting (5-0)
• Adjourned at 9:00 pm (5-0)

Indigenous Peoples Celebration Committee

The Indigenous Peoples Celebration Committee meets remotely on Friday, October 11, 2024, to approve minutes from its October 4 meeting and finalize details for Indigenous Peoples Day on October 14, 2024. The agenda also lists other or new business and a webpage item. No specific contracts, ordinances, or dollar amounts appear in the agenda.

• Approval of minutes from the 10/4/2024 meeting
• Final details for Indigenous Peoples Day (IPD) on October 14, 2024
• Other or new business
• Indigenous Peoples Celebration Committee webpage

The Indigenous Peoples Celebration Committee approved minutes from its Oct 4 meeting and finalized plans for the Oct 14 Indigenous Peoples Day event, including a rain plan to move indoors. The committee voted to offer each speaker a $200 honorarium, with one member abstaining. Members also discussed logistics like vendor tables, a raffle, and a map, and noted upcoming events at the high school and library.

• Approved minutes from 10/4/2024 (6-0, 1 abstained)
• Voted to offer $200 honorarium to each speaker (Kailey abstained)
• Agreed on weather plan: indoors if pouring, outdoors if not raining
• Set committee member arrival at 12-12:30 for the Oct 14 event
• Agreed tables set up at 1pm, food served after speaking event
• Caitlin to create a vendor map
• Next meeting scheduled for November 15 at 1PM

Roland Hayes School Site Council

The Roland Hayes School Site Council meets in person on Thursday, October 10, 2024 at 8:15 AM at 100 Eliot Street, Chestnut Hill. The agenda lists introductions, a review of Braver Guidelines, the School Improvement Plan, the Family Handbook, 2024 Staff Climate and Culture Survey and Family Survey results, and the budget. It also lists possible ad-hoc committee work and general start-of-year updates on BEEP Launch, RISE Expansions, and Faculty Learning Trajectories. The agenda does not include specific dollar amounts, votes, or decisions.

• Review of the School Improvement Plan (linked Google Doc)
• Review of the Family Handbook
• Review of 2024 Staff Climate and Culture Survey and Family Survey results
• Review of the budget
• Start-of-year updates: BEEP Launch, RISE Expansions, Faculty Learning Trajectories

Advisory Committee

The Advisory Committee's Land Use, Zoning and Sustainability Subcommittee holds a public hearing on Warrant Article 8, which would amend Section 5.05 of the Town's Zoning By-Laws to let the Zoning Board of Appeals waive the minimum lot size requirement when granting a special permit to convert single-family buildings into two-family units in SC or T Districts. The hearing includes a presentation by petitioners/staff, subcommittee questions, public comment, and subcommittee deliberation and vote. The public is invited to attend and comment.

• Public hearing on WA 8 (Wu, TMM7): amend Section 5.05 of the Zoning By-Laws to allow the Zoning Board of Appeals to waive minimum lot size for converting single-family buildings into two-family units in SC or T Districts
• Subcommittee deliberation and vote on WA 8
• Public comment period during the hearing
• Other business

The Land Use, Zoning and Sustainability Subcommittee of Brookline's Advisory Committee voted 6-0-0 to refer the subject matter of Warrant Article 8 to the Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee. The article, filed by petitioner Chi Chi Wu, would have deleted minimum lot size language from Section 5.05 of the Zoning By-Law so the Zoning Board of Appeals could waive minimum lot size by special permit for certain dwelling conversions. No decision was made on the article itself; the referral sends the topic to the Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee.

• Referred subject matter of Warrant Article 8 to the Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee (6-0-0)

Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee

The Brookline Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee meets virtually on Thursday, October 10, 2024, at 12:10 PM. The agenda lists a virtual visioning workshop from 12:10 to 12:50 p.m., with an optional discussion until 1:15 p.m. No decisions, votes, contracts, or public hearings are listed on the agenda. The agenda is largely procedural and does not include specific proposals or dollar amounts.

• Virtual visioning workshop scheduled 12:10–12:50 p.m.
• Optional discussion to continue until 1:15 p.m.
• Meeting held virtually via Zoom; registration link provided
• ADA accommodations contact: Sarah E. Kaplan, 617-730-2329

Washington Street Design Review Committee

The Washington Street Design Review Committee is holding a site walk on Thursday, October 10, 2024 at 4:00 PM. Participants will meet at the Beacon Street and Washington Street intersection and walk the project with the Project Design Team. The event gives committee members and the public a chance to ask questions, visualize proposed improvements, and review existing conditions and site constraints. Participants must RSVP by emailing [email protected].

• Site walk of the Washington Street Corridor starting at the Beacon Street and Washington Street intersection
• Project Design Team will lead the walk and answer questions
• Public invited to attend; RSVP required by emailing [email protected]
• Meeting listed for Thursday, October 10, 2024 at 4:00 PM

Advisory Committee

The Human Services Subcommittee of Brookline's Advisory Committee holds a public hearing on Thursday, October 10, 2024 at 4:00 PM. The agenda lists continued discussion and a possible vote on WA 16, which would amend Article 8.41 of the Town's General By-Laws to expand the requirements of the Tree Preservation By-law (Plazonja, et al.). The public may attend, comment, and submit written comments to the subcommittee chair or [email protected] by noon the day before the hearing. The agenda also lists "Other business."

• Public hearing and possible vote on WA 16 to amend Article 8.41 of the General By-Laws and expand the Tree Preservation By-law (Plazonja, et al.)
• Written comments accepted until 12 noon the day before the hearing via the subcommittee chair or [email protected]
• Public comment offered during the hearing; all comments become part of the public record
• Recording of the open session allowed with prior notice to the chair
• Other business listed with no further detail

The Human Services Subcommittee of Brookline's Advisory Committee held a continued discussion on proposed Warrant Article 16, which would amend the Tree Preservation Bylaw. No vote was taken on the amendment itself; instead, the subcommittee voted 5-0 to continue the meeting to October 16. Members raised concerns about definitions, financial relief, and implementation discretion, and requested petitioners return with a finalized version.

• Continued meeting to Wednesday, October 16 at noon (5-0)
• No vote taken on proposed tree bylaw amendment

School Committee

The Brookline School Committee meets Thursday, October 10, 2024 at 6:00 PM for a regular meeting. The committee will hold second readings and possible votes on FY26-30 budget guidelines, the Superintendent's 2025 goals and focus indicators, and the 2025-2026 school calendar. A public hearing will be held on 2024 Special Town Meeting Warrant Article 19, a resolution to make Jewish American Heritage Month an official annual Town-sponsored event. The agenda also includes student and superintendent reports, public comment, and subcommittee reports.

• Public hearing and possible vote on 2024 Special Town Meeting Warrant Article 19: resolution to make Jewish American Heritage Month an official annual Town-sponsored event (Burstein TMM12 and Gladstone TMM16)
• Second reading and possible vote on FY26-30 Budget Guidelines
• Second reading and possible vote on Superintendent's 2025 Goals and Focus Indicators
• Second reading and possible vote on 2025-2026 School Calendar
• Consent agenda includes student trips: AALSP students to Brown University on November 12, 2024, and Pierce School 7th Grade to Nature's Classroom in Charlton, MA, November 6-8, 2024

The Brookline School Committee unanimously approved the FY26-30 Budget Guidelines, incorporating edits including support for full funding of the literacy initiative. The Committee also voted 6-1 to instruct the Superintendent to update the 2025-2026 school calendar to designate Eid al-Fitr as a Category 1 holiday. Additionally, the Committee unanimously approved the Superintendent's 2024-2025 goals and the consent agenda items.

• Approved FY26-30 Budget Guidelines (7-0)
• Approved Superintendent's 2024-2025 goals (7-0)
• Voted to designate Eid al-Fitr as Category 1 holiday on 2025-2026 calendar (6-1)
• Approved consent agenda including student trips (7-0)
• Motion to remove budget language failed (2-4, 1 abstention)

Planning Board

The Brookline Planning Board is holding a public hearing on three proposed zoning amendment warrant articles for the Fall 2024 Town Meeting. The articles address outdoor lighting standards in residential districts, lot-size waivers for certain dwelling conversions, and expanded tree preservation requirements. The board is hearing public comment on these proposals; no votes or decisions are indicated in the agenda.

• Article 12: add Section 7.10, Outdoor Lighting Standards in Residential Districts, to regulate light glare (submitted by Planning and CD Dept.)
• Article 8: amend Sec. 5.05 to allow minimum lot size to be waived by special permit for certain single-family to two-family conversions in SC or T Districts and dwelling unit conversions in F or M Districts (submitted by Chi Chi Wu, TMM P7)
• Article 16: amend Article 8.41 of the General By-Laws to expand the Tree Preservation By-law to protect more trees (submitted by seven Town Meeting Members)
• Full warrant article text available at https://www.brooklinema.gov/3599 or the Brookline Planning Department, 3rd floor of Town Hall, 333 Washington Street

The Brookline Planning Board voted unanimously to support Warrant Article 12, which adds outdoor lighting standards for residential districts, with amendments requiring fully shielded luminaires to be dark-sky certified and exempting main entrances. The board also unanimously supported Article 8, allowing minimum lot size waivers for certain dwelling conversions, and voted 4-1-1 to support Article 16, expanding the Tree Preservation By-law with an exemption for 100% affordable projects.

• Supported Article 12 (outdoor lighting) with amendments for dark-sky certified luminaires and main entrance exemptions (unanimous)
• Supported Article 8 (conversion lot size waivers) as proposed (unanimous)
• Supported Article 16 (tree preservation expansion) with 100% affordable project exemption (4-1-1, Zarrillo no, Hines abstained)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Brookline Zoning Board of Appeals meets Thursday, October 10, 2024 at 7:00 PM virtually. The only business is to continue a public hearing on an application by Residences of South Brookline, LLC to modify a 2015 Comprehensive Permit (M.G.L. Chapter 40B) for a multifamily development. No testimony will be taken on October 10; the hearing will be continued to Thursday, December 5, 2024 at 7 p.m.

• Application by Residences of South Brookline, LLC at 10 Thornton Road (known as 101 Asheville Road), Precinct 16, Zoning District M-0.5-Multifamily
• Requested modification would convert 25 garage parking spaces and a storage area in the Asheville Building to 16 apartment units and add 24 surface parking spaces
• Comprehensive Permit (M.G.L. c.40B) was granted in 2015 and modified in 2019 (twice) and 2021
• Hearing continued to Thursday, December 5, 2024 at 7 p.m.; no testimony on October 10
• Project page: brooklinema.gov/649/Hancock-Village; contact Maria Morelli, Senior Planner