During the meeting, Sarah Porter, CEO and president of Victory Programs, plans to expand the existing Portis Family Home operations to the new site on William Street. This expansion would increase the program’s capacity to serve 18 families across two locations, with the facility offering a sober living environment designed to provide comprehensive support for single mothers and their children. The program emphasizes a 24/7 supportive environment with individualized care, fostering reunification and stabilization over stays averaging 18 to 24 months.

However, the proposal has sparked significant concern among residents, as numerous public comments revealed apprehensions about safety, transparency, and the potential impact on the neighborhood. The proposed facility’s proximity to family homes and schools was a particular point of contention. Residents expressed fears that the transitional housing could lead to increased crime rates and negatively affect property values. Susan Freed, a local resident, emphasized the importance of considering potential negative consequences, arguing for a more cautious approach to ensure “do no harm” to the community.

Concerns were also raised about the transparency of the proposal’s development, with calls for greater clarity on how the facility will operate and its potential impact on the community.

The Select Board chair reassured attendees that written comments would be reviewed and considered as part of the decision-making process.

The meeting also included a presentation on the proposed development of a six-story building on Harvard Street. The project, intended to provide mixed-income rental units, has similarly stirred community debate. Concerns about the building’s massing, environmental impact, and adherence to local zoning regulations were echoed during the public hearing, with opponents citing potential traffic congestion and privacy issues for neighbors.

Supporters of the project pointed to the need for affordable housing in Brookline, advocating for the benefits of developing housing near public transit and local amenities. Kathy Seidman of “Brookline for Everyone” argued that the project’s location makes it ideal for addressing the town’s housing crisis, while acknowledging that environmental concerns would be best addressed during the Zoning Board of Appeals process.

In addition to housing discussions, the meeting addressed operational changes at the Wagner Restaurant Group’s establishment on Webster Street, with proposed alterations to include a 600-square-foot outdoor patio area. Concerns from neighboring residents focused on potential noise disturbances and smoking violations, prompting the board to impose conditions on the patio’s operation to mitigate these issues.

Finally, the Select Board deliberated the transfer of a marijuana retail license from Sanctuary Medicinals to Diesel Cannabis LLC. The conversation centered on the qualifications of the new operators, with board members scrutinizing their lack of direct experience in cannabis retail operations. The board sought assurances that the establishment would adhere to state regulations and maintain community safety, ultimately deciding to move forward with the transfer while emphasizing the importance of retaining experienced staff.