The Programs & Services Committee met on Wednesday, July 15. See the report and meeting video.
Approved
- Appointment of Synthia Wayne to the Human Rights Commission — 7-0. Wayne, president of the Newton Food Pantry and former leader of the interfaith youth organization Mosaic (formerly Kids4Peace Boston), spoke about her community service experience and her interest in dialogue programs and facilitated workshops to encourage mutual understanding.
- Early voting hours for the September 1, 2026 State and Federal Primary — 7-0 (as amended). Approved seven days of early voting at Newton City Hall, amended to extend Tuesday, August 25 hours to 8:30 AM–8 PM to retain one evening voting session.
- Early voting hours for the November 3, 2026 State and Federal General Election — 7-0 (as amended). Approved fourteen days of early voting at Newton City Hall, amended to add evening hours (until 8 PM) on Tuesday, October 20 and Wednesday, October 28.
Held
- Reporting of tree loss, preservation, and canopy data — 7-0. A full report is forthcoming.
- Notification process for Tree Permit applications, to extend abutter notification to all permits — 7-0. A full report is forthcoming.
- Review of Newton City Charter, including the structure, composition, role, and duties of the City Council and School Committee — 5-0 (Councilors Farrell and Bixby not voting). A full report is forthcoming.
Present: Councilors Krintzman (Chair), Malakie (Vice Chair), Farrell, Oliver, Charm, Bixby, and Baker.
Absent: Councilor Micley.
Also present: Councilor Wright.
City staff: Drew Willison, City Clerk; Marc Welch, Commissioner of Parks & Recreation; Victor Lee, School Committee; Jason Bhardwaj, Vice Chair of School Committee; Miles Starkey, Committee Clerk.