Brookline Select Board Examines Communication Policies and Noise Waivers Amid Cannabis Operation Concerns

In a recent meeting, the Brookline Select Board addressed communication policy updates, approved a noise bylaw waiver for urgent construction work at Brookline High School, and debated the operational future of a local cannabis business under receivership.

14:19The meeting’s significant highlight was the Select Board’s in-depth discussion on updating the town’s media engagement and social media policies. The new policy aims to formalize procedures for responding to media inquiries, emphasizing coordinated communication and discouraging “no comment” responses. The discussion revealed concerns about maintaining a balance between individual expression and the collective stance of the Select Board. This conversation was sparked by past incidents like a brick being thrown through a local business window, which highlighted the need for swift, yet legally compliant, communication strategies. The board stressed the importance of a designated communications officer in improving media relations and discussed the need for more proactive communication from the town on issues.

25:49Further, the Board deliberated on updates to Brookline’s social media policy, which had not been revised since 2017. The updated policy outlines who can create social media accounts, mandates the use of official town email addresses, and introduces user training. It stresses the importance of maintaining the continuity of accounts and outlines guidelines for official and personal use. The board discussed the potential benefits and drawbacks of engaging with unofficial social media platforms, like a townwide Facebook page, and the need for a centralized announcement area to avoid politically charged discussions.

55:40The noise bylaw waiver for Brookline High School’s tunnel project was another topic. The tunnel, connecting sections of the high school, requires urgent repairs due to water damage causing spalding concrete and rusting rebar. The waiver permits construction activities on select Saturdays in July, excluding the July 4th weekend. This decision was made to facilitate time-sensitive work, including jackhammering and concrete pouring, which are contingent on weather conditions. The board ensured coordination between this project and another ongoing roof work initiative to avoid interference.

02:04:45The Select Board also confronted the operational status of Mission Massachusetts, Inc., a cannabis company in receivership, which raised questions about its host community agreement. The board expressed concern over the company’s ability to continue operations without an active location in Brookline, especially given the landlord’s termination of its lease. The receiver’s appointment complicates the potential transfer of the business to a new operator, with an estimated timeline of three to six months for a sale process. The town’s legal counsel was directed to negotiate options with the receiver.

01:25:07Beyond these issues, the meeting included discussions on park and recreation commission interviews. Candidates highlighted their visions for enhancing park accessibility and fostering community engagement. One candidate emphasized park accessibility for individuals with mobility needs, while another discussed integrating arts into public events.

02:39:46The meeting concluded with the approval of the town’s comprehensive emergency management plan, designed to guide responses to large-scale emergencies. The plan outlines roles and responsibilities across town departments and emphasizes the importance of training and exercises. The board also approved reappointments to various committees and set the schedule for the upcoming fall town meeting.

Note: This meeting summary was generated by AI, which can occasionally misspell names, misattribute actions, and state inaccuracies. This summary is intended to be a starting point and you should review the meeting record linked above before acting on anything you read. If we got something wrong, let us know. We’re working every day to improve our process in pursuit of universal local government transparency.

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