Finance voted to approve the following (see Report and watch NewTV video):
- Accept and Expend an Emergency Management Preparedness Grant: Authorized to accept and expend a $25,600 grant to enhance Newton’s Emergency Operations Center, aiming to address communication dead zones in the City with network and equipment upgrades. (7-0)
- Discussion and Possible Amendments to Update Project Review Fees: Approved proposed updates to fees related to special permits, zone change, and site plan review. The adjustments aim to more accurately reflect the actual costs incurred by the city for these processes. (7-0)
Finance voted to hold the following:
- Update on Plans for Remaining ARPA Funds: Chief Operating Officer Jonathan Yeo and CFO Maureen Lemieux described how the $63,590,000 in ARPA funds, which must be spent by year-end, have been allocated. They initially left funds in the reserve so that they could use them in case there was a need to supplement projects or add additional projects. The administration noted that if the Council has ideas for the reserve funds, they should submit them to the Mayor’s Office. The City’s food banks did not request or receive ARPA funds. (7-0)
- Request for Proposals from Outside Special Counsel for the Turtle Lane Site: The Ward 4 Councilors will meet with the Law Department to discuss engaging an outside law firm to find another strategy to move along the 8-year-delayed Turtle Lane project. (7-0)
- Discussion and Possible Ordinance Amendment Concerning Noticing Requirements: Held for further consideration of extending notification requirements to include renters and tenants, not just property owners, for public hearings and city projects. (7-0)