The Programs & Services Committee voted to approve the following (see report and watch the meeting video):
- Appointment of Rabbi Keith Stern as a Newton Library Trustee (7-0)
Rabbi Stern expressed his enthusiasm for serving in a new capacity, following his prior service on the Human Rights Commission. - Appointment of Michelle Howard-Sparks to the Institutional Biosafety Committee (7-0)
Ms. Howard-Sparks, a Newton resident with over 25 years of experience in pharmaceutical environmental health and safety, explained her background and interest in contributing to biosafety. She addressed a councilor’s questions about the committee’s scope and environmental concerns. - Recommendation to Approve 2025 Preliminary Election Date (7-0)
Elections Supervisor John Doyle recommended setting September 9, 2025, as the date for the 2025 Preliminary Election, if needed. He clarified the criteria for holding a preliminary and addressed questions about early voting and federal directives. - Resolution to Recognize the Newton Cultural Council (7-0)
Chris Pitts noted that the council must be recognized formally by the city (not the state) to qualify for federal NEA matching funds.
The committee voted to hold the following:
- Update on Leaf Blower Landscaper Registration and Enforcement Ordinance (7-0)
Inspectional Services Commissioner Ciccariello and Police Chief McMains provided an update to the committee. Ciccariello reported 2024 registration numbers (352 total) and noted 2025 registration was already underway with 202 registrants. He shared that six criminal cases are being prepared against landscapers with unpaid fines. Councilors asked about homeowner liability, the effectiveness of penalties, and suspension policies. McMains reported that the enforcement was limited due to officers arriving after the landscapers had left. He expressed concern about the perceived targeting of undocumented workers. Councilors raised the possibility of amending the ordinance to carry suspensions over to the next season.
Present: Councilors Krintzman (Chair), Oliver, Micley, Malakie, Humphrey, Baker, and Farrell
Absent: Councilor Lobovits
Also Present: Councilor Wright
