The Programs & Services Committee voted to approve the following(see Report and watch the NewTV video):
- Request to set Early Voting Hours for the March 5th Primary Election (8-0) at City Hall as recommended by the Election Commission:
- Saturday, February 24: 11AM-5PM
- Sunday, February 25: 11AM-5PM
- Monday, February 26: 8:30AM-5PM
- Tuesday, February 27: 8:30AM-5PM
- Wednesday, February 28: 8:30AM-8PM
- Thursday, February 29: 8:30AM-5PM
- Friday, March 1: 8:30AM-5PM
The City Clerk was asked if early voting could be expanded to other areas. The clerk will look into it and reply.
- Resolution on avoiding PFAS in Newton purchasing primarily in products used in schools and libraries. The issue was raised because of concerns around PFAS in artificial turf installed in City parks. According to the report, concern is primarily regarding PFAS in food and other materials in schools and libraries. Chief Operating Officer, Jonathan Yeo said the both Public Buildings and Parks, Recreation, and culture Departments are working to source materials that do not contain PFAS and cleaning supplies and lunch trays are certified as not containing PFAS. the City said only known products would be medical supplies. The Committee voted to approve 8-0.
- Appropriate $925,000 Newton Public Schools Curriculum Investments to fund materials that meet state standards in STEM for the elementary school students. According to the report, Superintendent Anna Nolin was present for the discussion and explained that this funding would focus on curriculum resources, professional development, and other teacher training opportunities. The Committee voted to approve 8-0.
- Reappointment of Jane Brown to the Human Rights Commission. The Committee voted to approve (8-0).
The Programs & Services Committee voted No Action Necessary 8-0 on the following:
- Discussion concerning P&S workplan for the new term. The Committee discussed the following:
- Refinements to the tree ordinance
- Updates on compliance with the leaf-blower ordinance, recycling, artificial turf,
- Making sure the City Clerk has adequate resources,
- Revisions to the City Council Rules,
- Creating either an ethics committee or ethics code for the City Council,
- Conducting a broader review of the noise ordinance as it relates to pest deterrent devices,
- Vibration ordinance as it relates to jackhammers,
- Examining the relationship between the City Council and the School Committee,
- Reviewing the ordinance covering dog licenses and off-leash dog parks,
- Oversight of the Parks, Recreation and Culture Department.