The meeting opened with an acknowledgment of the first annual Stanley Rabinovitz candidates forum at the Young Israel synagogue and a service for Eleanor Kaplan, both community figures. The upcoming Boston Marathon and support for Team Brookline were also noted, along with a response to a recent anti-Semitic incident at the Longwood T station. In a moment of personal clarification, a board member addressed a damaging rumor, asserting strong support for Israel, which was met with backing from other board members.

Attention then shifted to a concern voiced during the public comment period by Amy Hall, a police officer, regarding the treatment of a colleague in the promotional process within the police department. The board’s approval of the new Recreation Director followed the public comments. The town administrator recommended Tim David for the role, noting his experience and the thorough selection process that included a panel of community volunteers.

Substantial time was dedicated to the departmental budget reviews, with a detailed examination of the Recreation Department’s proposed budget. The presentation highlighted their accomplishments, goals, and initiatives, such as maintaining a status quo budget and addressing wage increases due to collective bargaining. The board members engaged in a thorough discussion, seeking clarity on the department’s priorities and success measures for the upcoming fiscal year.

Further discussions on the Recreation Department’s budget touched on the Equity Initiative Program, which supports free recreation for low to moderate income families, and the completion of a landscape master plan for the golf course. The board discussed concerns about equity and access to the town’s recreational facilities, including scholarships for golf and the condition of the gym facility.

The board moved on to address housing issues, including the appointment of a new affordable housing restriction for a property on Beacon Street to support formerly homeless and very low-income individuals. They also discussed a change in the area median income limit for a housing project on Beacon Street.

Energy supply contracts were another significant item, with the board granting authority to the Town Administrator to execute multi-year contracts for electricity and natural gas based on upcoming bid results. The Chestnut Hill commercial area study was presented, focusing on incentivizing commercial tax growth and enhancing the area’s livability. The board considered the involvement of the community in developing zoning and design guidelines for this project.

The board also tackled zoning discussions, particularly the potential changes to bylaws regarding accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and reducing setbacks for energy-saving devices. The proposed amendments to the zoning bylaw to facilitate the creation of ADUs and non-owner-occupied applications were discussed, alongside the importance of local action in achieving climate goals and transitioning from fossil fuels.

Updates to the police department’s general orders were presented, reflecting changes mandated by the Massachusetts Police Accreditation Commission. The board voted to approve these updates and also addressed recommendations for promotions within the police department. The police department’s accomplishments and goals for the upcoming year, such as transitioning out of Civil Service and implementing body-worn cameras, were shared. Budget concerns for non-salary items and the potential for a new expansive headquarters were debated.

Lastly, the town’s ongoing infrastructure projects and policies were highlighted, including the pavement management program and upcoming roadway and sidewalk maintenance plans. Discussions revolved around the prioritization of street repairs and the impact of ADA compliance and complete streets on the community. The board considered a Warren article regarding the Diversity Commission, which underwent revisions and was unanimously supported by the commission.