Brookline Select Board Faces Division Over Reappointment of Commission Member Amid Allegations

Overview: In a contentious meeting of the Brookline Select Board, the reappointment of Chi-Chi Woo to the Commission on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Community Relations (CDICR) sparked debate, resulting in a split vote that ultimately led to Woo not being reappointed. The discussion was prompted by allegations raised in a letter from community member Jesse Heft, who criticized Woo’s social media posts related to the October 7th, 2023, attacks in Israel, which were perceived as anti-Semitic.

Norfolk County Commissioners Approve Handbook Amendments, Sign Union Contracts, and Honor Community Member

Overview: The Norfolk Board of County Commissioners approved significant amendments to the North County Employee Handbook, signed union contracts with AFSCME Local 2417, and honored the memory of a respected community member during their meeting on November 26, 2025. The meeting addressed various personnel matters, discussed technological upgrades, and confirmed future events.

Norfolk County Commissioners Approve Legislation Testimony and Discuss Maintenance Projects

Overview: At the recent Norfolk Board of County Commissioners meeting, key agenda items included the approval of a revised letter of testimony for House Bill 3971, extensive updates on the county maintenance department’s projects, and decisions regarding employment and payroll matters. The meeting also addressed potential scheduling adjustments for upcoming sessions due to holiday conflicts.

Brookline Select Board Reviews Managerial Changes Across Dining and Lodging Establishments

Overview: The recent Brookline Select Board meeting focused on several significant managerial and operational changes for local businesses and lodging establishments. Key discussions included the approval of managerial positions at prominent venues, ensuring compliance with safety protocols, and addressing continuity concerns during agent transitions.

Brookline School Committee Considers New Competency Standards and Graduation Criteria

Overview: The Brookline School Committee meeting was marked by a detailed examination of new competency determination policies necessitated by changes in state graduation standards. The discussion focused on the development of a local policy to replace the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System Test (MCCAST) as a measure for competency, which the state removed last spring. The session also touched on the use of school spaces by external users and the potential revision of the personal electronic device policy.