The Programs and Services Committee voted to Approve (see Report and watch NewTV video scroll down to Programs and Services meeting):
- Appointment of Daniel Green to the Newton Commonwealth Foundation (8-0).v
- Creation of NPS Stabilization Fund (8-0) to prevent overlay surplus funds from automatically becoming part of the general fund at the end of each fiscal year. Funds from this account would be used for faculty, staff, initiatives, programs, services, curriculum, and anything that relates to the administration of educational services by Newton Public Schools. A two-thirds Council vote is required to create, dissolve, or change the purpose of the stabilization fund. A majority Council vote can deposit money into or withdraw money from the fund.
- NPS Educational Stabilization Fund Appropriation (8-0). A total of $22 million: $18.2 million from Overlay Surplus, $800,000 in interest income from Overlay Surplus, and $3 million from Free Cash.
The Programs & Services Committee Held:
- Update Regarding the City Seal Redesign (8-0). Three bids were submitted from consultants. Sebastian Ellington with SEED was chosen. SEED worked with Boston and Natick on their seal redesigns. SEED is setting up community meetings on a new design. A 9-12 month process anticipated.
The Programs & Services Committee Denied:
- Request for Amendments to Council Rules and Ordinance Regarding Start Time of City Council Meetings from 7:45 pm to 7:30 pm (3-5, Councilors Malakie, Micley, Lobovits, Baker, and Farrell Opposing)