The Zoning & Planning Committee met on January 12, 2026 and took the following actions (see the report and watch the meeting video):
Approved
- Ordinance amendments to move the Economic Development function and staff from the Planning Department and relocate it to the Mayor’s Office (8-0). The transition moves the Economic Development Commission to the Mayor’s Office to improve collaboration with City departments and create a more accessible process for business owners. The Economic Development team stated that they are creating a public database of vacant storefronts to attract new businesses and pursue State grants. Councilor Baker expressed concern that the Planning Department was currently understaffed by two senior positions. Councilors expressed interest in streamlining the City’s permit processes and improving the City’s ability to attract and compete for large businesses to increase the city’s financial base.
Held
- Discussion concerning the Zoning & Planning Committee workplan for the new term (8-0). Planning staff presented an overview of Newton’s zoning ordinances and the amendment process for new committee members.
Present: Councilors Baker (Chair), Wright, Albright, Gordon, Oliver, Dahmubed, Getz, and Kalis. Also Present: Councilors Roche, Block, Farrell, Greenberg, and Malakie.
City staff: Katie Whewell, Director of Planning; Zachary LeMel, Chief of Long-Range Planning; Lara Kritzer, Director of Housing & Community Development; Andrew Lee, Assistant City Solicitor; Dana Hanson, Mayor’s Chief of Staff; Lauren Berman, Director of Economic Development Commission; Cheryl Lappin, Deputy Director of Economic Development Commission; Meryl Kessler, Director of Arts & Culture; and Miles Starkey, Committee Clerk.
