The Programs & Services Committee approved the following (see the report and watch the meeting video):
- Council on Aging appointments (7-0) Eric Hilman, John Pelletier, Robert Pierson, and Judith Gordon.
- Parks and Recreation Commission Reappointment (7-0) Randall Johnson.
- Newton Elections Commission Reappointment (7-0) Marjorie Butler.
- Request to set salary for City Clerk/Clerk of the City Council (6-0-1, Councilor Oliver abstained) The committee recommended setting the starting salary of $146,479 on December 31, 2025 and raising it to $150,906 effective 1/1/2026, noting coordination with Finance for further review.
The Programs and Services Committee voted no action necessary:
- Discussion about school department Federal grants and METCO funding (7-0) NPS leadership presented federal-grant dynamics amid rising personnel costs; members discussed exposure if grant revenues soften and potential mid-year impacts. Superintendent”Dr. Nolin noted differences between FY22 and FY26 federal grant and METCO allocations as well as the growth of personnel costs. She explained that since 2022, major grants have increased $506,413 while salaries and benefits have grown by $40.7 million.”
Present: Councilors Krintzman (Chair), Humphrey, Oliver, Malakie, Lobovits, Baker, and Farrell
Absent: Councilor Micley
City Staff: Director of Older Adult Services Mignonne Murray, Superintendent Anna Nolin,
Assistant Superintendent Liam Hurley, and Director of Human Resources Michelle Pizzi O’Brien
