The Programs & Services Committee voted to Approve the following (see report and watch the video):
- Appointment of Nathan Persampieri to the Commission on Disability (6-0, Councilor Micley Not Voting): Nathan Persampieri discussed his advocacy for improving sidewalk accessibility in Newton, drawing on his own experiences navigating the city as a person with a physical disability.
- Request for a salary increase for City Clerk/Clerk of the City Council to $138,776 effective 7/1/2024 (6-0, Councilor Micley Not Voting): The salary adjustment reflects a standardization with other H-grade employees, adjusted to $138,776 to match the fiscal year duration of 52.2 weeks.
The Programs & Services Committee voted to Approve the following reappointments (7-0):
- Reappointment of Joan Belle Isle to the Council on Aging
- Reappointment of Barbara Lischinsky to the Commission on Disability
- Reappointment of Lucille Chansky to the Commission on Disability: Ms. Chansky highlighted her long-term commitment and connections within the disability community.
The Programs & Services Committee voted to Hold the following:
- Update Regarding City Seal Redesign (7-0): Director of Community Engagement and Inclusion, Hattie Kerwin Derrick, presented three initial designs for a new City Seal, with ongoing community feedback being solicited through various channels. Concerns were raised about the absence of a “no-change” option in the survey and measures to ensure survey integrity.