Programs & Services approved the following (see Report and watch NewTV video):
Tennis Court Resurfacing at Newton South High School (Item #176-24): Authorization to transfer $165,000 for resurfacing eight tennis courts, completing the renovation started with ARPA funds last year. The project is scheduled to begin after spring sports and finish before summer. Approved unanimously. (7-0)
Programs & Services held the following:
Tobacco Sales Prohibition to Those Born After 1/1/2000 (Item #149-24): Discussion on prohibiting tobacco sales to individuals born on or after January 1, 2004. The ordinance aims for a gradual phase-out of recreational tobacco products, inspired by a similar successful ordinance in Brookline that was recently upheld by the Supreme Judicial Court. Held for further discussion. (7-0)
Tree Protection Ordinance Revisions (Item #28-24): Revisions to Newton’s tree protection ordinance to address concerns about compliance and interaction with zoning laws, particularly regarding tree save areas on adjacent properties. Public comments highlighted challenges for builders and property owners. The ordinance will be reevaluated after more data on its implementation is gathered. Held for further refinement. (4-3, Councilors Malakie, Lobovits, and Baker opposed)