The Programs & Services Committee approved the following (see the report and watch the meeting video):
- Three appointments to the Council on Aging: Laxmi Rao, Gloria Mastrocola Gavris, and Sam Tackeff (5-0). The nominees described their experience in senior services, intergenerational programming, transportation, and community engagement. Councilors specifically encouraged the new members to look beyond the Cooper Center to city-wide senior opportunities.
- Home Rule Petition to raise the maximum local ordinance fine to $2,000, with inflation adjustments every five years (5–0) The Law Department explained that the present $300 cap under state law is outdated and that higher ceilings would give Newton a realistic tool for chronic or commercial violations.
Present: Councilors Humphrey (Vice Chair), Oliver, Baker, Malakie, and Farrell
Absent: Councilors Micley, Lobovits, and Krintzman
City Staff: Director of Older Adult Services Mignonne Murray, and Senior Assistant City Solicitor Andrew Lee
