The Finance Committee approved the following (read the report and watch the meeting video):
- Authorization to expend $750,000 from the Current Year Stormwater Reserve (8-0)
Commissioner of Public Works, Shawna Sullivan, discussed funding for the design and permitting of the first four projects under the City’s Phosphorus Control Plan. These projects are necessary for compliance with the EPA’s MS4 Permit. Potential sites include Davis School, Elmwood Park, and East Side Parkway, with further site testing required before final decisions. - Acceptance and expenditure of a $122,834.30 grant from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (8-0) Commissioner of Health and Human Services, Shin-Yao Lao, outlined that the grant would support homelessness programs and solutions, partnering with Family Aid for a new shelter in Newton, addressing startup costs such as technology and training. The grant’s usage deadline has been extended to June 30, 2026.
- Acceptance and expenditure of a $20,592 grant from the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security for the Emergency Medical Dispatch Grant Program (8-0) Dispatch Commander Ken D’Angelo explained the grant would cover the cost of expert case review and reporting for approximately 930 Emergency Medical Dispatch calls, fulfilling state requirements for quality assurance.
Present: Councilors Gentile (Chair), Malakie, Grossman, Bixby, Humphrey, Greenberg, Lipof, and Micley
City staff present: Comptroller Steve Curley; Financial Planning & Analysis Manager Perry Rosenfield; Commissioner of Public Works Shawna Sullivan; Deputy Commissioner of Public Works Bernie McDonald; Newton Police Dispatch Commander Ken D’Angelo; and Commissioner of Health and Human Services Shin-Yao Lao