The meeting’s most pressing topic was the bed bug infestation at the Concord condominium. Richard Rubin, a resident, voiced his frustration over the town’s perceived inaction regarding a persistent hoarding issue by a unit owner, Janice Pies, which had contributed to the infestation. Rubin noted that while his unit was unaffected, other residents, including a child, had suffered bites. He criticized the town for not intervening, arguing that hoarding is a mental health issue requiring social services intervention. Despite the board’s engagement with health and legal departments, a court order was necessary for any meaningful action. Rubin’s comments were echoed by Elaine Quishian, another resident, who sought clarification on the town’s response and the necessity of a court order, expressing dissatisfaction with the town’s handling of the situation. The board assured residents of continued follow-up, emphasizing legal constraints surrounding property rights and public health.

Dan Murphy, director of engineering and transportation, presented an updated resolution after 16 months of study, emphasizing the importance of safety for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. The initiative aims to secure $25 million in grants from the state’s Streets for All program. The resolution includes a detailed action plan addressing safety challenges in Brookline, which has seen three traffic-related fatalities in the past five years. Murphy stressed the importance of comprehensive street safety improvements, including infrastructure upgrades, public engagement, and data-driven enforcement by the police. The board discussed the importance of public involvement in the planning process, with a focus on high-risk streets that account for 85% of injury crashes in Brookline. The conversation also touched on the rollout of speed humps on select streets, with the Transportation Board poised to finalize these plans following community feedback and a pending vote.

The meeting also delved into affordable housing issues, with a report from the Housing Advisory Board (HAB) outlining ongoing efforts and challenges. The HAB chair discussed projects funded by the town’s affordable housing trust, highlighting completed and upcoming initiatives. The board reflected on the financial implications of requiring on-site affordable units as part of inclusionary zoning, recognizing potential limitations on development opportunities.

In the realm of public art, the board discussed funding challenges in relation to the Massachusetts Cultural Council grants. This year, the town secured $10,000 from the American Rescue Plan Act instead of the expected $18,000. The board acknowledged the value of public art installations and the need for dedicated staff to manage arts initiatives effectively. The conversation included ideas for new installations and proposals for an annual mural festival to enhance community engagement.

The board also addressed the appointment of a new poet laureate, Allison Madair, set to begin her term in July 2025. The appointment was highlighted as a significant cultural contribution, building on the accomplishments of the previous poet laureate. In line with community engagement, the board touched on arts integration in local schools, recognizing opportunities for collaboration.

Additionally, the board reviewed and approved reappointments to various boards and commissions, including the housing advisory board and the tree planting committee, with all members receiving unanimous support. They also discussed a proposal to transmit a warrant article regarding a real estate transfer fee to the state legislature, following substantial town meeting support.