The Programs & Services Committee met on Wednesday, March 4. See the report and meeting video.
Held
- Review of City Council Rules (7-0) the committee confirmed the formation of a Rules subcommittee for this Council term, comprising Councilors Krintzman, Oliver, Charm, and Baker (Chair). Topics identified for discussion include representation on the Financial Audit Committee, order of voting during Council meetings, and composition of committees.
- Newton City Charter Review (6-0-1, Councilor Bixby not voting) the committee discussed possible approaches to Charter reform, including Home Rule Petitions and a Charter Commission process. Councilors noted that the 2017 Charter Commission’s proposal was rejected by voters largely due to a proposed reduction in the number of Councilors, and that other elements of that proposal could be revisited. The committee discussed organizing the review into priority tiers, beginning with straightforward clean-up items such as the date of Inauguration Day. The chair will bring a list of possible items to review to the April meeting.
The March 17 P&S meeting is canceled so members can attend the Public Safety and Transportation meeting on ICE enforcement in Newton.
Present: Councilors Krintzman (Chair), Malakie (Vice Chair), President Oliver, Farrell, Baker, Bixby, and Charm.
Absent: Councilor Micley.
City staff: Miles Starkey, Committee Clerk.
