Brookline Select Board Grapples with Financial Challenges and Policy Changes

Overview: In a recent Brookline Select Board meeting, officials tackled critical financial challenges and debated policy changes, focusing on budget sustainability, infrastructure needs, and potential new discrimination protections. Key discussions centered on financial forecasts, the management of free cash, debt service implications, and a proposed policy amendment that would add criminal records as a protected class against discrimination.

Brookline School Committee Grapples with Calendar Changes and Sustainability Initiatives

Overview: The Brookline School Committee’s recent meeting tackled issues, including proposed changes to the school calendar, with an emphasis on religious holidays, and a comprehensive sustainability initiative aimed at transforming district practices.

Norfolk County Commissioners Urge Swift Action on ARPA Funds as Deadline Looms

Overview: In a recent meeting of the Norfolk Board of County Commissioners, the administration of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds dominated discussions, with a pressing reminder for communities to apply for additional funding before the looming December 31 deadline. The commissioners emphasized that a portion of the allocated $137 million had already been expended or obligated, with over $17 million fully utilized. They discussed the potential return of unspent funds to the treasury and urged municipalities to ensure their projects are completed in time to avoid losing funds.

Brookline Tackles Tax Burden Debate Amid Resident Concerns Over Fairness

Overview: The Brookline Select Board gathered to discuss several matters, with the debate over the town’s property tax system taking center stage. The board considered adjustments to the residential exemption, a policy that has sparked significant concern among residents due to its impact on tax fairness across different property categories. This discussion highlighted disparities in the tax system, focusing on how the residential exemption affects various homeowners, including single-family homes, condominiums, and multi-family units, and its broader implications for Brookline’s residents.

Norfolk County Commissioners Debate Employee Handbook vs. Collective Bargaining Agreement

Overview: During a Norfolk Board of County Commissioners meeting held on November 27, 2024, the board grappled with a contentious issue regarding the interplay between the county’s employee handbook and existing collective bargaining agreements, centering around the Registry of Deeds’ hiring practices. The debate revealed a complex tension between procedural adherence and employee rights, highlighting two promotion requests that remained unresolved.