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Town Of Brookline Announces Two Upcoming Weekend CoViD-19 Testing Clinics

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Brookline.com
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Interim Health Commissioner Patrick Maloney is pleased to announce that the Brookline Department of Public Health and Human Services will host CoViD-19 testing clinics on the next two Sundays.

On Sunday, January 23 and January 30, from 09:00 a.m. to 02:00 p.m., Brookline DHHS will offer free PCR testing at Brookline High School, 115 Greenough Street. Tests are available to Brookline residents, students and employees of businesses in Brookline. While walk-ins will be accepted, those planning to be tested are strongly encouraged to make an appointment. To sign up, please visit here.

Those arriving for the clinic should enter the building at the entrance by the corner of Tappan and Greenough Streets. Parking is available on streets surrounding the school, and it is also accessible via the MBTA Green Line at the Brookline Hills stop. Testing is being offered through a partnership between the town and Transformative Healthcare.

Masks are required at the testing site. Results are typically available 48-72 hours following testing via phone, text or e-mail.

Town Of Brookline Invites Residents Learn More About Town Budgeting Process at Budget Forum

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Brookline.com
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Town Administrator Mel Kleckner and the Town of Brookline invite residents to a virtual information session this month to learn more about the town’s budgeting process.

The Brookline Budget Forum will serve as an opportunity for residents to hear directly from Kleckner as he provides insight on municipal finance and the town’s annual budget process.

The event will include an early outlook on the town’s Fiscal Year 2023 budget as its development gets underway, and residents will have an opportunity to provide general input on town budget priorities.

Over the course of the next several months, the budget will be outlined in greater detail prior to its eventual presentation before Town Meeting for approval.

“I encourage residents to join us later this month to learn more about the town’s budget and how it comes to fruition,” Kleckner said. “This meeting serves as an easy and convenient way to keep up with the town’s budgeting process, as well as an opportunity for residents to provide input that will inform the budgeting process for the coming year.”

Kleckner also will speak about ways the town may use American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding. Brookline received about $43 million allocated through ARPA, which was signed into law on March 11, 2021. The program is intended to support the U.S. effort to combat the COVID-19 pandemic in myriad ways, including offsetting the economic impact of the pandemic and supporting public health efforts meant to curb the spread of the virus. The federal government has given local jurisdictions discretion over how to spend the money to ensure funding responds to the wide range of community needs.

Over the past several months, the Town of Brookline and the Brookline Community Foundation have engaged with the community to determine ways to use the funding, including through virtual listening sessions, an online survey and a community charette.

The event will take place on Thursday, January 27, from 07:00 p.m. to 08:30 p.m.

The Brookline Budget Forum will serve as an opportunity for residents to hear directly from Kleckner as he provides insight on municipal finance and the town’s annual budget process.

The event will include an early outlook on the town’s Fiscal Year 2023 budget as its development gets underway, and residents will have an opportunity to provide general input on town budget priorities.

Over the course of the next several months, the budget will be outlined in greater detail prior to its eventual presentation before Town Meeting for approval.

“I encourage residents to join us later this month to learn more about the town’s budget and how it comes to fruition,” Kleckner said. “This meeting serves as an easy and convenient way to keep up with the town’s budgeting process, as well as an opportunity for residents to provide input that will inform the budgeting process for the coming year.”

Kleckner also will speak about ways the town may use American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding. Brookline received about $43 million allocated through ARPA, which was signed into law on March 11, 2021. The program is intended to support the U.S. effort to combat the COVID-19 pandemic in myriad ways, including offsetting the economic impact of the pandemic and supporting public health efforts meant to curb the spread of the virus. The federal government has given local jurisdictions discretion over how to spend the money to ensure funding responds to the wide range of community needs.

Over the past several months, the Town of Brookline and the Brookline Community Foundation have engaged with the community to determine ways to use the funding, including through virtual listening sessions, an online survey and a community charette.

Town Of Brookline Appoints Acting Police Chief, Announces Three Promotions

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Brookline.com
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Town Administrator Mel Kleckner is pleased to share that Richard Allen has been selected to serve as Acting Police Chief, and he announces the promotions of three members of the Brookline Police Department.

At a meeting on Tuesday, January 11, 2022, the Select Board named Allen as Acting Chief.

Acting Chief Allen is a 33-year veteran of the Brookline Police Department. He joined in 1989 as a Patrol Officer. He was promoted to detective in 1995, Patrol Sergeant in 2003 and Detective Sergeant in 2004. He was promoted to Shift Commander Lieutenant in 2007 and later to Police Prosecutor Lieutenant in 2008, serving as the lead prosecutor in district court. In 2021, he was promoted to Deputy Superintendent of the Patrol Division.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in law enforcement from Western New England College, a master’s degree in criminal justice from Anna Maria College and a juris doctor from New England School of Law.

The Town of Brookline has partnered with the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF) to assist in the search for a permanent Police Chief. The formal application process for Chief has closed. The town and PERF are currently in the process of reviewing and interviewing 22 applicants. A permanent Chief is expected to be appointed by April.

Additionally at the meeting, the Select Board voted to delegate the authority to promote members of the Police Department to Town Administrator Kleckner until a permanent Chief is appointed. Following the vote, Town Administrator Klecker promoted the following members of the Brookline Police Department:

Deputy Superintendent Paul Cullinane

Paul Cullinane was promoted to the rank of Deputy Superintendent.

Deputy Superintendent Cullinane joined the Brookline Police Department in 1984 as a Patrolman. He was promoted to Sergeant in 2004, serving as the Patrol Division Supervisor. In 2005, he was transferred to the Detectives Division. While serving as Sergeant Detective he oversaw the Identification Unit, Firearms Licensing and Recruit Investigations. In 2012, he was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant, serving as the Patrol Division Platoon Commander. In 2016, he returned to the Detectives Division, where he was in charge of overseeing criminal investigations on both the evening and day shifts.

In 2019, Deputy Superintendent Cullinane was assigned as the Cannabis Licensing Liaison, representing the licensing authority with security-related issues, as well as neighborhood complaint mitigation. He also is a member of the Security Planning Group for the U.S. Open Golf Championship, which will be hosted at The Country Club in June 2022.

Deputy Superintendent Cullinane holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and a master’s degree in criminal justice administration from Western New England College.

Lt. David Hill

David Hill was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant.

Lt. Hill began his career with the department in 2008 as a Patrol Officer after attending the Lowell Police Academy where he finished first in his class. He was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in 2016, serving as a Patrol Supervisor. He is a trained member of the department’s Crisis Negotiation Team.

Additionally, he was President of the Brookline Police Association from 2016 to 2019.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in sociology with a minor in psychology from the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

Sgt. Joseph Amendola

Joseph Amendola was promoted to the rank of Sergeant.

Sgt. Amendola joined the department in 2003. He served in the Patrol Division from 2003 until 2019 when he was assigned to the Community Service Division. He also served on the Special Response Team from 2015 to 2019.

As a member of the Community Service Division, his duties included organizing youth sports events, including street hockey, basketball and volleyball. He is a member of the Brookline Homelessness Task Force and actively interacts with those in need, including those dealing with mental health and substance abuse issues. He serves as a liaison between the department and the outreach worker for the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.

He also is an active volunteer at Brookline Thrives and the Brookline Food Pantry.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Curry College.

Town Of Brookline Hosts Free CoViD-19 PCR Testing Clinic

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Brookline.com
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Interim Health Commissioner Patrick Maloney announces that the Brookline Department of Public Health and Human Services will host a free CoViD-19 testing event this weekend.

On Sunday, January 16, 2022, from 09:00 a.m. to 02:00 p.m., Brookline DHHS will offer free PCR testing at the Pierce School, 50 School Street. Tests are available to Brookline residents, students and employees of businesses in Brookline. Tests are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Drive-through and walk-up options will be available. Those seeking drive-through testing should enter the site through the town garage on Washington Street between Town Hall and the main library. Those seeking walk-in tests should enter from the stairs to Pierce on Harvard Street, across from St. Mary’s Church.

Those who are walking to the testing site should be mindful that the weather is expected to be cold Sunday and should plan to dress accordingly in the event they must wait outdoors.

Masks are required at the testing site. Results are typically available 48-72 hours following testing via phone, text or e-mail.

Town Of Brookline To Require Proof Of CoViD-19 Vaccination At All Restaurants, Gyms And Entertainment Venues

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Brookline.com
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Interim Health Commissioner Pat Maloney announces that the Town of Brookline, with the support of the Select Board and Advisory Council on Public Health, will implement a vaccine requirement at a wide variety of businesses and venues beginning next weekend.

The regulation requires that proof of vaccination be provided by patrons for at all:

  • indoor entertainment, recreation and event venues — including movie theaters and performance spaces, party venues, museums and galleries, exhibition halls and other recreational centers;
  • food service establishments, including indoor and outdoor seating areas; the regulation does not apply to food service establishments offering food or beverage exclusively for off-premises consumption, nor does it apply to charitable food service locations;
  • all commercial indoor gyms and fitness settings.

Visitors to these businesses and venues who are eligible to be vaccinated will ultimately be required to provide proof they hae been fully vaccinated against CoViD-19. To view the full order, please visit here.

The regulation will take effect in phases, beginning with a soft rollout on Saturday, January 15, 2022:

  • Phase 1, January 15, 2022: All patrons ages 12 and up shall be required to present proof they’ve received at least one dose in either a one-dose or multi-dose vaccination.
  • Phase 2, February 22, 2022: All patrons ages 12 and up shall be required to present proof of one dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine or all doses of either Pfizer or Moderna.
  • Phase 3, March 22, 2022: All patrons ages 5-11 shall be required to present proof of at least one dose of the Pfizer vaccine, which is currently the only vaccine authorized to be provided to that age group.
  • Phase 4, May 01, 2022: All patrons ages 5-11 shall be required to present proof of full vaccination with the Pfizer vaccine, which is currently the only vaccine authorized to be provided to that age group.

The vaccine requirement will take full effect on Saturday, January 22, 2022, with violators facing fines of $300 per violation.

“This approach helps to protect our entire community as we approach the start of the third year of a pandemic that has touched all of our lives,” Commissioner Maloney said. “I want to thank the Advisory Council on Public Health and the Select Board for their leadership on this issue.

“By implementing this regulation,” Maloney added, “Brookline is doing its part to mitigate a continuing surge that is stretching our healthcare system to its limits, because vaccination is proven to severely limit the potential for hospitalization due to CoViD-19.”

The vaccine requirement does not affect public or private K-12 schools, childcare programs, senior centers, community centers or non-commercial municipal functions. It also does not apply to sites that are not open to the general public.

Visitors to covered businesses can provide proof of vaccination in a number of ways, including:
A CDC CoViD-19 vaccination card A digital image of a CDC card Any other official immunization record from the jurisdiction, state or country where the vaccine was administered A digital or physical photo of such card or record, reflecting the person’s name, vaccine brand and dates administered A letter, digital image or report from a health care provider, pharmacy or vaccination site establishing proof of CoViD-19 vaccination Any vaccination verification smartphone application developed by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts or developed or endorsed by the Town of Brookline.

Yesterday, the Commonwealth announced a digital vaccine card, which individuals vaccinated in Massachusetts may obtain and save on their smartphones. To obtain yours, please visit here and complete the form. A link to obtain the digital record will be texted or emailed to you within moments, based on your preference.

Those entering these establishments for a quick, limited purpose like using the restroom, placing or picking up a takeout order, making a delivery or performing necessary repairs will be exempted from this regulation. Additionally, public safety, public health and emergency services personnel will be exempted.

Brookline’s indoor mask mandate remains in effect as well.

Getting vaccinated is free, safe and is the most effective way of preventing serious illness due to CoViD-19. To find out where you can be vaccinated or obtain a booster dose, please visit here.

Brookline Shares Update To Town Operations Ahead Of Expected Winter Storm

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Brookline.com
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Town Administrator Mel Kleckner wishes to notify the community of changes to the Town of Brookline’s operations and services due to the expected winter storm tomorrow.

Town offices will be closed to the public on Friday, January 07, 2022, but services will be available remotely. Town employees who are able to do so will be working from home, and will be able to be reached during normal business hours.

Schools and libraries, as well as the Brookline Council on Aging and Brookline Recreation Department also will be closed.

Public Works employees and emergency operations staff will be needed for weather and snow removal services. As a result, trash collection will be delayed by a day.

Emergency services will operate as normal, including Brookline Police, Fire and Dispatch. Residents are reminded to always call 911 in the event of an emergency. Residents can report non-emergencies at BrookOnLine.

Residents are encouraged to review the Department of Public Works Winter Guide, which provides helpful information on snow removal. To view the winter guide, please visit here.

Update On Constantly-Evolving CoViD-19 Pandemic

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Brookline.com
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Interim Health Commissioner Patrick Maloney and the Brookline Department of Public Health and Human Services (DHHS) wish to provide the community with an update on its work to respond to the rapidly-evolving CoViD-19 pandemic.

As the pandemic progresses, Brookline DHHS is continuing to modify and expand its approach in order to identify and address community needs and keep residents safe and healthy. Brookline DHHS is committed both to keeping the community informed as it takes new steps to address the virus, as well as to updating residents on the work it has already done.

Local cases Cases among Brookline residents have surged much as they have throughout the commonwealth and nationwide.

In the last week, there have been 511 new cases of CoViD-19 identified among Brookline residents. This marks the third straight week in which more than 150 cases were reported, and the 511 cases this week mark an all-time high for the pandemic in Brookline, topping the 324 cases identified in the previous week.

What to do if you’re sick or exposed Brookline and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts are adhering to guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which recently modified its isolation and quarantine guidance for those who have tested positive for — or been exposed to — CoViD-19.

If you test positive for CoViD-19 Everyone, regardless of vaccination status, should isolate away from family members or roommates in their home for five days. Those without symptoms, or those whose symptoms are significantly improved after five days may leave their home but should continue to wear a mask around others for five additional days. The CDC also strongly encourages testing at five days of isolation.

Those who have a fever should continue isolating until the fever has resolved on its own, without the aid of medication.

If you test positive, notify anyone you have recently been in close contact with — defined as within six feet or less for 15 minutes or more.

If you are exposed to someone with CoViD-19 Those who are fully vaccinated within the last six months, as well as those who have received boosters, do not have to quarantine following exposure to CoViD-19.

However, these individuals should wear a mask around others for 10 days and obtain a CoViD-19 test on the fifth day following the exposure, if possible.

Those who:

  • are unvaccinated;
  • obtained Moderna or Pfizer’s vaccine over six months ago and are not yet boosted;
  • obtained a Johnson & Johnson vaccine more than two months ago but are not boosted,

should quarantine at home for five days and continue to wear a mask around others when leaving your home for another five days. These individuals should also seek a CoViD-19 test five days after their most recent known exposure. Anyone who is not yet vaccinated or is eligible for but has not yet received a booster should visit vaxfinder.mass.gov to find a vaccination location near them.

Prevention Face coverings continue to be required in all indoor settings throughout Brookline, and Brookline DHHS is working with local grocery stores to reestablish shopping hours for at-risk residents, as well as uni-directional aisles.

Residents are urged to upgrade their masks to more effective N95 or KN95 models, which filter out and therefore better prevent users from inhaling viral particles found in respiratory droplets.

At the outset of the pandemic in 2020, Americans were advised against purchasing these higher-quality masks in order to ensure healthcare personnel could access these critical tools, which had been in short supply. With shortages now less of a concern, all Brookline residents are urged to seek out better masks that will more effectively protect them and those they come into contact with.

In the absence of N95 or KN95 masks, community members should wear cloth face coverings.

Additionally, following these tips will help prevent the spread of CoViD-19 and other viral infections:

  • wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds;
  • avoid touching your face;
  • clean high-touch surfaces like doorknobs or countertops with household cleaning spray or wipes;
  • cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze, using a tissue or your inner elbow;
  • stay home if you are sick and avoid close contact with others;
  • get vaccinated and obtain a booster when you’re eligible.

It is not too late to get a flu shot, which is available free of charge at local pharmacies or primary care providers’ offices.

Call center has re-opened

The Town of Brookline has reopened its CoViD-19 call center for residents with general, non-medical questions about the virus. The call center is staffed Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 04:00 p.m. The number for the call center is 617-879-5636.

Messages left after hours or on weekends will be returned the next business day. Residents also may email their non-medical inquiries to: CoViD19Info@brooklinema.gov.

Testing

Brookline DHHS is actively working to increase access to testing, including offering PCR testing. More information will be made available soon regarding PCR testing through Brookline’s public health nurse.

Additionally, Brookline DHHS is working to obtain 9,000 iHealth at-home CoViD-19 tests.

Information about eligibility and distribution will be announced when the town learns more about the delivery of the tests.

These tests will be in addition to the more than 14,000 tests Brookline DHHS has already distributed via its community partners. Tests were provided to:

  • Brookline Food Pantry;
  • Brookline Housing Authority;
  • Religious organizations;
  • Council on Aging;
  • Steps to Success;
  • Hebrew Senior Life and other subsidized housing;
  • The Brookline Center;
  • The Village at Brookline;
  • Veterans’ Services.

Town Of Brookline Asks Community To Complete Survey Ahead Of Website Redesign

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Brookline.com
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Town Administrator Mel Kleckner is pleased to announce that the Town of Brookline is redesigning its website, and he encourages community members to complete an important survey about how to improve the site.

The survey includes questions about what residents like most about the current website and what changes they would like to see on the redesigned site. Community input will help the town update the website so that it is more modern, accessible and user-friendly.

“We want to hear from the community about features and improvements that are most important to them, so please take a few moments to complete this survey,” Town Administrator Kleckner said. “The feedback that we receive will help us redesign our site and provide a platform for our community to stay better engaged and connected with town news and resources.”

The survey is open and will remain live until Friday, January 07, 2022. To complete the survey, please visit here.

For questions about the survey, or if you would like to participate in the redesign by providing additional feedback, please contact IT Operations Director Ben Vivante by visiting here.

Brookline Residents Resolving To Serve The Community In 2022 Encouraged To Fill Board Vacancies

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Brookline.com
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Town Administrator Mel Kleckner wishes to encourage Brookline residents to consider volunteering for a number of vacant positions on critical town boards and committees in 2022.

More than a dozen boards have vacancies that engaged residents are encouraged to fill in order to help each fulfill its critical role supporting the town’s work related to diversity and inclusion, the arts, public health, preservation, and more.

“Each of these groups does important work that benefits the community,” Town Administrator Kleckner said. “I hope that residents looking for a way to give back in the new year will consider applying to join ones that match their skills and expertise.”

Some of the board and commissions that currently have vacancies include:

  • Zoning Board of Appeals;
  • Building Commission;
  • Commission for Diversity, Inclusion & Community Relations;
  • Commission for the Arts Commission for Women;
  • Advisory Council on Public Health;
  • Indigenous Peoples’ Day Celebration Committee;
  • Brookline Village Parking Benefit District Advisory Board;
  • Cannabis Mitigation Advisory Committee;
  • Police Commissioner’s Advisory Committee;
  • Trustees of Walnut Hills Cemetery;
  • Preservation Commission;
  • Community Preservation Act Committee.

Residents, who are interested in filling a vacancy on one or more boards, should fill out a form here, and include their resume or other materials which highlight their relevant background and experience.

To learn more about boards and commissions in Brookline, please visit here.

Merry Christmas

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Brookline.com
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Town Of Brookline To Reopen CoViD-19 Call Center

By
Brookline.com
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Town Administrator Mel Kleckner and Interim Health Commissioner Patrick Maloney announce that the Brookline CoViD-19 call center and email will reopen on Friday, December 24, 2021.

Residents may call the center to ask non-medical questions specific to CoViD-19 in Brookline. The call center will be staffed Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 04:00 p.m. The number for the call center is 617-879-5636.

Messages left after hours or on weekends will be returned the next business day. Residents also may email their non-medical inquiries to CoViD19info@brooklinema.gov.

Residents seeking answers to Brookline-specific medical or public health inquiries should continue to contact the Brookline Department of Public Health at 617-730-2000.

General CoViD-19 questions that are not specific to the Town of Brookline should continue to be directed to the state 211 line.

Remember, in the case of emergencies, please call 911.

“With CoViD-19 cases on the rise within our town and throughout the state, we feel that now was the right time to reopen the call center,” Maloney said. “We encourage residents to utilize the call center for any non-medical questions related to CoViD-19 in Brookline, and we urge residents to continue to take preventive measures to stop the spread of this virus.”

Brookline Department Of Public Health & Human Services To Begin Distributing Free Rapid CoViD-19 Tests

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Brookline.com
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Interim Health Commissioner Patrick Maloney is pleased to announce that the Brookline Department of Public Health and Human Services will begin distributing thousands of rapid CoViD-19 tests to members of the community this week.

Brookline is one of 102 communities in Massachusetts to receive rapid tests through a new state program, which residents can use to help mitigate the spread of CoViD-19. Brookline has 18,700 tests and will work with community partners to distribute tests to residents in need starting today.

Brookline DHHS, working in collaboration with the town’s Emergency Management Team, will distribute tests to residents living in 400 apartments owned by the Brookline Housing Authority. Additional tests will be provided to housing authority staff to distribute to residents in need.

Tests will also be shared with the Council on Aging to distribute at the Senior Center. COA social workers will also be provided tests to share with seniors during home visits. Additionally, tests will be provided to food pantries, select lodging homes with subsidized housing and religious institutions.

Tests are not available at the Health building at this time.

“These rapid tests could not come to us at a more critical time, as many in our community no doubt plan to gather for the holidays,” Maloney said. “We are working closely with our partners to distribute these tests to those in our community who will benefit the most. I am grateful to the Commonwealth for taking this step, which should help us more efficiently identify and isolate positive cases, keeping residents safe.”

The delivery of rapid tests will be augmented in mid-January by the arrival of the state’s VaxBus in Brookline. More information about the opportunity to be vaccinated at the mobile clinic will be provided when it becomes available.

In addition, the Town of Brookline is working to coordinate booster clinics for residents, and more information will be provided soon. In the meantime, residents seeking boosters are urged to use the state’s online vaxfinder to identify where they can get a shot.

More information about Brookline DHHS’ plan to distribute rapid tests will be announced as the plan is more fully developed.

Image caption: Commissioner Patrick Maloney with members of the National Guard, who delivered rapid CoViD-19 tests that will be distributed to residents.

Brookline Department Of Health & Human Services Begins Outreach On Tobacco Bylaw

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Brookline.com
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Interim Health Commissioner Patrick Maloney announces that the Brookline Department of Health and Human Services has begun outreach regarding the bylaw passed by Town Meeting earlier this year, which restricts tobacco purchases by anyone born after January 01, 2000.

The bylaw took effect in September following authorization by the Office of the Attorney General. The bylaw, which was proposed via citizens petition and subsequently adopted by Town Meeting, prohibits anyone born after January 01, 2000 from purchasing tobacco products in Brookline. The bylaw has been referred to as a “tobacco-free generation” policy, with the intent of preventing those born after the cutoff date from becoming tobacco users.

“After receiving clarity from the Attorney General’s Office, we have begun by conducting educational outreach to businesses in town that sell tobacco products to ensure they are aware of their obligations,” Maloney said. “At this stage, we have prioritized education ahead of enforcement as businesses adapt to this change, but we are also committed to ensuring compliance with these regulations going forward.”

None of the 18 licensed tobacco sellers in Brookline have been cited for violations of the bylaw since it took effect.

“Tobacco is a harmful product to users of all ages, and we have done extensive work as a community to conduct outreach with the goal of preventing youth tobacco use of all kinds, including vaping, smoking cigarettes or using chewing tobacco,” Maloney said.

The above posting has been provided to all licensed tobacco sellers in Brookline.

Information On Anticipated Snow Removal Challenges This Winter

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Brookline.com
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Town Administrator Mel Kleckner and Commissioner of Public Works Erin Chute Gallentine wish to provide information on snow removal this winter.

Residents are encouraged to review the Department of Public Works Winter Guide, which provides helpful information on snow removal. To view the winter guide, please visit here.

Community members who have not already done so should sign up for Alert Brookline’s CodeRed system here to receive special emergency alerts about impacts to the community, including snow emergencies. Residents can also enroll by typing “alertbrookline” to 99411.

Due to the ongoing challenges of the CoViD-19 pandemic, the DPW — similar to other communities — has experienced staff shortages for individuals that specialize in snow removal. Additionally, there has been a decline in private contractors available for snow and ice removal. This industry has also experienced delays, reduced availability and increased costs associated with vehicle and equipment parts and repairs.

Residents should note that the combination of these factors will impact the time it takes the DPW to clear streets, sidewalks, ramps, parking lots, schools, public buildings, and public grounds, as well as designated bike lanes, parks, public paths, stairs, bus stops and approved private ways.

“This staff shortage is not an issue unique to Brookline. We have heard from surrounding communities that they too are facing this problem,” Commissioner Gallentine said. “Despite these challenges, we are committed to working to clear snow as efficiently and quickly as possible during future storms. We thank the community for their understanding and patience as we enter the winter season.”

The Town will prioritize the main arterial roadways and passage for emergency vehicles during snow events. Once those areas are cleared, the focus will shift to neighborhood roads, schools and public buildings.

In the event of a winter storm, the DPW will work to clear the streets, sidewalks, school bus stops, and school parking lots before the school day starts. Depending on the impact of storms, school schedules may be impacted.

Additionally, municipal trash collection may be delayed by a day if crews that typically collect trash are needed for snow removal.

Residents are reminded to clear snow from the sidewalks in front of their property, as well as any nearby fire hydrants or catch basins in order to mitigate the impact of snowfall.

Brookline Office Of Emergency Management Provides Information Ahead Of 3G Cellular Network Shutdown

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Brookline.com
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Brookline Fire Chief and Emergency Management Director John F. Sullivan wishes to provide information about the planned 3G cellular network shutdown, in order to prepare residents for possible impacts.

Mobile carriers plan to retire 3G networks, which rely on older technology, beginning in early 2022 in order to allow for more advanced and reliable network services, including 5G. As a result, some older phones and devices will lose call and data functions, including the ability to contact 911.

Residents with family members who use older devices are asked to check in with them and assist them in upgrading their devices, if necessary.

Mobile devices, including those older than an iPhone 6 or Samsung Galaxy S4, may require an upgrade before the elimination of the 3G network. Residents with older phones are urged to contact their mobile carrier or visit their carrier’s website to determine if a new device or software upgrade is necessary.

Mobile providers have indicated they plan to retire 3G services on the following timelines:

Residents are reminded that these are the dates for completion and mobile carriers may begin retiring parts of the network earlier.

Residents with mobile carriers not listed may still be affected.

The shutdown may affect other devices as well, including medical devices, tablets, smartwatches, vehicle SOS services, personal emergency alert devices, security systems and more. Residents concerned about a device’s connectivity should contact the monitoring company or service provider to see whether or not the device will be impacted.

For more information about the shutdown, including information about resources to assist eligible consumers with phone upgrades and other internet connectivity costs, please visit here.

Stay Informed Ahead Of 2022 U.S. Open

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Brookline.com
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Town Administrator Mel Kleckner and the Town of Brookline wish to share ways that community members can stay informed about the 2022 U.S. Open planning process.

“Planning for the 2022 U.S. Open is well underway,” Town Administrator Kleckner said. “We look forward to this historic event and want to make sure that all those affected are informed every step of the way. Community members are encouraged to take advantage of the multiple channels available to help keep them up-to-date.”

Community members can sign up for timely emails, text messages, and/or phone calls using Alert Brookline’s CodeRed system here. After creating an account, residents will be able to subscribe directly to alerts about the U.S. Open.
Brookline Police, Fire, and additional town staff are currently planning for potential road closures or altered traffic patterns resulting from the U.S. Open, and will inform residents of access to and from those areas. Hard copy mailers will be distributed to affected residents and businesses during this process.

Please visit brooklinema.gov/USOpen for all information regarding the town’s participation and response. An updated FAQ sheet with information about ongoing planning efforts will be posted in the coming weeks.

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About the 2022 U.S. Open

The U.S. Open will be played at The Country Club from June 13-19, 2022. It will be the fourth U.S. Open in the club’s history and its 17th USGA championship, second-most all-time. The championship was last played in Brookline during summer 1988. The first U.S. Open at The Country Club remains one of the most significant events in golf, when Brookline amateur golfer Francis Ouimet upset two of the game’s contemporary stars, Harry Vardon and Ted Ray, to win the 1913 edition.

“Tech Buddies” Program To Supply Low-Income Seniors With Tablets And Internet Access Amid Pandemic

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Brookline.com
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Town Administrator Mel Klecker and Fire Chief and Emergency Management Director John F. Sullivan would like to share that the Town of Brookline is offering a pilot program to keep seniors connected to the Internet during the pandemic.

Low-income seniors, living in Brookline and adults with disabilities, who live alone, can obtain a free tablet and/or free internet service for a year, along with technical support, via the Tech Buddies pilot program launched last year.

“The CoViD-19 pandemic highlighted the need to assist low-income families with internet access and many communities responded, but many low-income seniors lost their ability to access the internet through public libraries and other low or no-cost means,” said Sullivan. “This program is aimed at providing a connection to those seniors who are the most vulnerable to CoViD-19 and who are, in many instances, the most isolated due to the pandemic.”

The Brookline Office of Emergency Management received a $28,000 grant from the Metropolitan Area Planning Council in April of 2021 to launch the pilot program.

A tablet in a protective case rests atop a binder of large-print, easy-to-follow instructions for those who receive a free tablet via the Tech Buddies program offered by the Town of Brookline.

So far, the program has pre-qualified 47 individuals and delivered tablets to 18 of them. One recipient explained that she was technologically averse, but was pleased to learn a credentialed volunteer was available to deliver the tablet, help set up internet access and provide follow-up support.

During those at-home deliveries, credentialed volunteers provide basic education and offer to return as needed so that participants gain the confidence they need to use their tablets. The program also provides volunteer-based remote tech support for all participants, as well as a binder with large-print, easy to follow instructions for everything from charging the tablet to making a Zoom call.

Participants who do not already have Internet service can receive internet via a low-income Comcast program; the grant will pay for the first 12 months of service. Participants, who do not already own a non-phone device (tablet, laptop, PC, etc.) will receive a tablet, pre-loaded with links to websites and apps to get participants started. The tablet also comes with a protective case and 12 months of free antivirus software, generously donated by Lookout Antivirus.

“It is vitally important that seniors be able to stay connected to their communities, loved ones and important health resources while staying safe amid the pandemic, and we hope this program will facilitate that for seniors who have few other options,” said Sullivan. “I encourage all Brookline residents who qualify and need this assistance to reach out to us immediately.”

To qualify for the program, you must be a low-income Brookline resident age 60 or over, or a low-income adult of any age with a disability. Those, living in Brookline Housing Authority properties and those already participating in other public assistance programs qualify, as do individuals making $25,760 or less, and couples making $34,840.

For more information on the program or qualification requirements, please contact Sarah Kaplan, from the office of Diversity, Inclusion and Community Relations by calling 617-730-2329 or emailing skaplan@brooklinema.gov.

Brookline Department Of Health & Human Services Shares Update On Mask Guidance

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The Brookline Department of Health and Human Services wishes to provide members of the community with an update on its mask guidance as the CoViD-19 pandemic persists.

Masks continue to be required in all public indoor spaces in Brookline.

The mask requirement remains in effect after Brookline’s public health team considered Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data around community transmission in Norfolk, Suffolk and Middlesex Counties, as well as recent increases in hospitalizations.

The CDC recommends that masks be worn indoors, even by fully vaccinated individuals, in areas of substantial or high transmission of the virus. Norfolk County was recently elevated from substantial to high levels of transmission, according to the CDC.

Based on this data, Brookline DHHS believes a holistic prevention approach — masks, vaccination, booster shots, regular testing, improved ventilation in buildings, and quarantine of identified cases — remains in the best interest of the community. The department will continue to closely monitor data through the holiday season and determine what impact the cold weather and holiday gatherings have on case counts and hospitalizations. Brookline’s indoor mask mandate will remain in effect until public health metrics support lifting it.

All residents age 5 and older are now eligible to be vaccinated, and Brookline DHHS strongly urges all residents who can to get vaccinated to protect themselves, their loved ones, and the community at large. This is especially important as the holidays approach, because ensuring that everyone in attendance at holiday gatherings is vaccinated helps protect the most vulnerable.

Additionally, those gathering for the holidays are encouraged to get tested prior to doing so, and hosts are urged to improve ventilation in gathering spaces by opening windows to increase airflow and/or utilizing HEPA air filters in rooms where people gather.

Town Of Brookline Invites Community Members To Veterans Day Commemoration Ceremony

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Town Administrator Mel Klecker and Brookline Veterans’ Services Director William T. McGroarty wish to invite community members to the Town of Brookline’s annual Veterans Day Ceremony on Thursday, November 11, 2021, beginning at 11:00 a.m.

The event will take place on the World War Monument, located at the Brookline Town Hall, 333 Washington Street, Brookline, MA 02445.

Attendees:

  • Representatives of the American Legion;
  • Representatives of Veterans of Foreign Wars;
  • Representatives of Brookline Veterans’ Services;
  • Bernard Greene, Brookline Select Board Member;
  • State Rep. Tommy Vitolo;
  • Members of the Brookline Police and Fire Departments.

Community members are invited to attend the Town of Brookline’s annual Veterans Day Ceremony, and join various town officials, veterans, veterans groups and the general public in honoring local veterans for their service.

The annual event is organized by Brookline Veterans’ Services, and Director McGroarty will preside over the ceremony. The event will feature a speech from Neil Gordon, a U.S. Navy Vietnam War Veteran and VFW Post 864 member. Select Board Member Greene will give remarks on behalf of the Board. Rep. Vitolo will deliver a proclamation from the House of Representatives.

Additionally, the ceremony will include a placing of a wreath of thanks and salute, a moment of silence, and a presentation of the Arthur Hurley Memorial Award and the Veterans Service Award.

Due to CoViD-19 concerns, the Veterans Day collation, which is typically held after the ceremony, has been canceled.

On the day of the event, Brookline Interactive Group (BIG) will broadcast the ceremony hourly starting at 06:00 p.m and ending at 10:00 p.m on Comcast channel 23, as well as RCN channels 15 and 613 in HD.

Brookline Health Department Invites Community To Virtual Forum On Advancing Equity For LGBTQ+ Youth

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Interim Health Commissioner Patrick Maloney invites the community to Brookline Department of Public Health’s 25th annual health policy forum on advancing equity for LGBTQ+ youth.

This virtual event will be held on Monday, November 15, 2021, at 06:00 p.m.

To register for the forum, please visit here.

Residents who register will receive a digital program via e-mail with information about speakers and resources.

The topic of this year’s forum is “Advancing Equity: Health & Wellbeing for LGBTQ+ Youth.”

Discussions will surround creating safe spaces at schools with curriculum to support LGBTQ+ youths, providing inclusive healthcare and more equitable access to LGBTQ+ youths, as well as physical and mental health disparities that may affect some members of the LGBTQ+ youth community.

The event will be moderated by Dr. Natalia Linos, Executive Director of FXB Center for Health & Human Rights at Harvard University.

Guest speakers will include:

Valerie Frias, Ethos Chief Executive Officer and Brookline School Committee Member. Emily Lunardi, Lead Clinician of The Triangle Program at HRI Hospital. Kieran P. Todd, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health doctoral candidate.

“The Town of Brookline prides itself on being an inclusive community, and we are committed to having open conversations like these to promote health equity for LGBTQ+ community members,” said Interim Health Commissioner Maloney. “It is so important for all members, especially the youth, to feel heard, accepted and loved. We ask residents to join us to learn about how to achieve this.”

For more information, please contact Administrative Coordinator Darlene Johnson at 617-730-2301 or djohnson@brooklinema.gov.

Brookline Partners With Police Executive Research Forum To Assist In Police Chief Hiring Process

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Town Administrator Mel Kleckner is pleased to announce that the Town of Brookline has partnered with Police Executive Research Forum (PERF) to assist in the search for a new police chief.

PERF will work with the town and stakeholders to identify a nationwide pool of candidates. PERF will engage community members to determine the profile of an ideal candidate, identify, recruit and evaluate possible candidates and perform background checks.

The town is committed to maintaining an inclusive, equitable and progressive approach to policing, working in partnership with the community to ensure that all people enjoy a high quality of life without fear of crime. The town has engaged in an intensive review of reforming and reimagining its police services and seeks a chief who will work toward the goals established by the Select Board and the ideals of the community.

The Town Administrator is responsible for recommending a final chief of police candidate or candidates to the Select Board. A screening panel of residents assembled by Kleckner will assist him in identifying finalists for the position.

Residents are asked to participate in an online survey to share their priorities for the next police chief. To take the survey, please visit here.

Additionally, residents are invited to take part in two virtual forums. Community forums will take place on:

  • Thursday, October 28, 2021, from 07:00 to 09:00 p.m. Sign up here.
  • Monday, November15, 2021, from 07:00 to 09:00 p.m. Sign up here.

“We feel that community involvement is crucial in searching for Brookline’s next permanent police chief,” said Town Administrator Kleckner. “We want to hear from our residents about the qualities and characteristics that they hope to see in the ideal police chief candidate. This is our community’s chance to share their thoughts and voice their opinions, and we urge them to participate.”

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About PERF

PERF is a police research and policy organization and a provider of management services, technical assistance and executive-level education to support law enforcement agencies. Since its founding in 1976, PERF has focused on critical issues, including reducing police use of force, developing community policing and problem-oriented policing, using technologies to deliver police services to the community and evaluating crime reduction strategies. The organization strives to advance professionalism in policing and to improve the delivery of police services through the exercise of strong national leadership, public debate of police and criminal justice issues, as well as research and policy development.

To learn more, please visit here.

Brookline Partners With Qwally To Support Outreach Efforts To Businesses, Owned By Individuals From Historically Marginalized Groups

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Town Administrator Mel Kleckner and Chief Procurement Officer David Geanakakis are pleased to announce that the Town of Brookline is partnering with Qwally to support outreach efforts to small businesses, owned by individuals from historically marginalized groups.

The partnership aims to increase awareness of town contract bids among small local businesses, including those owned by women, people of color, veterans and LGBTQ+ individuals. It also aims to support establishment of businesses and provide owners with guidance to grow their business.

An online portal will be launched in the coming weeks. This easy-to-use portal will assist owners in the process of establishing their businesses, looking into Supplier Diversity Resource certifications, preparing to obtain government contracts in Brookline and more. Portals also will feature information on legal structure guidance, as well as state, local and federal resources that offer entrepreneurial support.

“Our partnership with Qwally will assist Brookline’s outreach efforts to business owners from historically marginalized groups, with the goal of making town procurement of goods and services more diverse and equitable,” Chief Procurement Officer Geanakakis said. “The portal will serve as a one-stop location to view information that is usually complex and difficult to find, including town contract bids, making it readily available and easy to understand.”

Business owners will have the opportunity to complete an intake form through the portal. Once completed, owners will receive tailored information to help grow their business, including a checklist with relevant steps to take so that businesses remain compliant with local requirements.

“We are looking forward to bringing together diverse enterprises seeking to do business with the town and supporting their growth with the help of Qwally’s unique and modern software,” said Town Administrator Kleckner.

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About Qwally

Qwally is a user-friendly, cloud-based software platform that provides self-serve tools to help small businesses connect with municipal programs and navigate complex processes, with the goal of building more equitable, inclusive and resilient communities.

Brookline Department Of Public Health Shares CoViD-19 Public Event Guidance Ahead Of Halloween

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With Halloween fast approaching, the Brookline Department of Public Health wishes to share CoViD-19 guidance to help all attendees celebrate public community events safely.

“The Town of Brookline remains committed to stopping the spread of CoViD-19, which is why we are issuing the following requirements for public community events ahead of Halloween,” said Interim Health Commissioner Patrick Maloney. “We want our residents to enjoy the holiday and have the opportunity to celebrate with family and friends, but we would like them to be able to do so in a safe environment.”

The Department of Health institutes the following to help mitigate the spread of CoViD-19 at indoor and outdoor events:

  • Event organizers must ensure hand sanitizers are available and conspicuously stationed.
  • All CoViD-19 recommendations must be posted at venue entry points. Recommendations also must be included in event publicity and emails.
  • All food handlers must wear face coverings and gloves.
  • A temporary food permit may be required from the Department of Health for food served and sold.
  • Unvaccinated attendees should wear face coverings. Face coverings are required for all at indoor events, regardless of vaccination status.
  • Event staff and attendees should stay home if they feel unwell, have CoViD-19 symptoms, are awaiting CoViD-19 test results, have been advised to quarantine or have tested positive for CoViD-19.

All indoor and outdoor events are subject to cancellation or restrictions should CoViD-19 cases spike in town.

Town Of Brookline & Brookline Community Foundation Launch Community Engagement Effort To Inform Uses For American Rescue Plan Funding

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Town Administrator Mel Kleckner is pleased to announce that the Town of Brookline and the Brookline Community Foundation (BCF) are launching a community-wide engagement process to inform potential ways the town may use American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding.

Brookline will receive about $43 million allocated through ARPA, which was signed into law on March 11, 2021. The program is intended to support the U.S. effort to combat the CoViD-19 pandemic in myriad ways, including offsetting the economic impact of the pandemic and supporting public health efforts meant to curb the spread of the virus. The federal government has given local jurisdictions discretion over how to spend the money to ensure funding responds to the wide range of community needs.

Funding can be used for:

  • supporting public health response efforts or addressing negative economic impacts;
  • replacing public sector revenue loss;
  • establishing premium pay for essential workers;
  • investments in water, sewer or broadband infrastructure.

“This represents an opportunity to make transformational investments in the Brookline community,” Town Administrator Kleckner said. “It is our goal to have significant community involvement so that we may identify where this funding will make the greatest impact.”

To gather input from community members on ways to use the funding, BCF will host virtual active listening sessions, work with various community partners to facilitate focus groups and partner with the town to co-host a community charrette. BCF also plans to release an online survey in the coming weeks through its website. All community members are encouraged to participate.

Virtual listening sessions will take place on:
Thursday, October 21, 2021, from 04:30 to 06:30 p.m. Sunday, October 24, 2021, from 03:0 to 05:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 10, 2021, from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, November 17, 2021, from 08:30 to 10:00 a.m. The community charette will be held on Wednesday, December 15, 2021, from 06:00 to 08:00 p.m. To register for an event, please click visit here.

“Ensuring everyone in the Brookline community — especially underrepresented groups and those who have been disproportionately impacted by CoViD-19 — has the opportunity to participate, share their perspectives, and contribute insights is fundamental to making spending decisions more equitable, effective, and aligned with community members’ priorities,” BCF Executive Director Giselle Ferro Puigbo said.

At the end of the community engagement process, BCF will issue a report detailing key themes and learnings, as well as community recommendations for potential ways to use the funding. This report will be presented to the Select Board and made public on BCF’s website here.

Additionally, BCF will offer technical assistance through programs and workshops to those interested in applying for ARPA funding through the Brookline ARPA OpenGov platform in January 2022.

Unlike the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act and the Coronavirus Relief Fund, which were intended to allay the direct and immediate impact of the pandemic, the American Rescue Plan allows for more flexible spending and extends the timeline for recipients to allocate money. About $350 billion will be passed down to state, local, and tribal governments to help cope with the economic and public health fallout of the CoViD-19 pandemic.

For information, resources and updates please visit BCF’s website here.

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About Brookline Community Foundation

The Brookline Community Foundation is a public charity dedicated to advancing opportunity and promoting equity through the transformative power of giving. By leveraging core strengths in building philanthropic partnerships, supporting nonprofits and community efforts through grantmaking, and driving the research that informs a shared community agenda, the organization is helping build a better Brookline for all who live, learn, work, and play in the community.

To learn more, please visit here.

Brookline Medical Reserve Corps & Community Emergency Response Team Host Appreciation Night For Volunteers

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The Town of Brookline is pleased to share that the Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) and Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) hosted an appreciation night for volunteers last week.

The event took place on Thursday, September 30, 2021, at Veterans Post, with about 60 people attending. The event began with dinner and networking, followed by opening remarks from CERT Coordinator Sgt. Casey Hatchett, Chair of Brookline Emergency Management Team Fire Chief John Sullivan, and Acting Health Commissioner Patrick Maloney. The event concluded with an awards ceremony.

MRC and CERT volunteers typically assist with a variety of activities, including staffing Boston Marathon reception centers, assisting displaced residents after fires, stocking equipment trailers, staffing flu clinics and community events and more. During the CoViD-19 pandemic, volunteers assisted with distributing informational flyers, staffing the food pantry, staffing CoViD-19 antibody testing events, sewing masks, making wellness calls to homebound and isolated seniors, and more.

The organizations have about 700 volunteers combined.

“The last year and a half, you have gone above and beyond in unimaginable ways. Our town and our fellow residents were safer and healthier because of your brave efforts during such a dangerous and uncertain time,” said Sgt. Hatchett. “Your work literally saved lives. I thank everyone in this room for your contribution whether big or small to the town’s CoViD-19 response and recovery.”

Awards were given to volunteers and staff members who went above and beyond the call of service:

  • Office of Emergency Management Coordinator Cheryl Snyder and former Brookline Nurse Barbara Westley were presented with the 2020-2021 Community Emergency Preparedness Appreciation Awards.
  • Volunteers Marjorie Trovato and Susan Katz Gilman were honored with the 2020-2021 Trudy Cohen Volunteer Service Awards.

The town thanks all emergency operation center staff, town supporters and volunteers for their hard work throughout the year. The town also would like to thank Catering by Andrew for donating food for the event, as well as Director of Veterans Services Bill McGroarty and Elmon Hendricks for coordinating the event space.

The appreciation event began with dinner and networking among volunteers and staff.

Food for the event was donated by Catering by Andrew.

Kara Brewton Named Brookline’s Next Director Of Planning & Community Development

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Town Administrator Mel Kleckner is pleased to announce that Kara Brewton has been named the Town of Brookline’s next Director of Planning and Community Development.

She will begin in her new role on Friday, October 08, 2021, upon the retirement of current Director Allison Steinfeld.

Brewton has served the Town of Brookline as its Economic Development Director since 2008, overseeing a variety of key projects and initiatives, including new commercial development, streetscape improvements and solar power purchase agreements for six town buildings.

Additionally, she has led numerous strategic planning efforts centered around town-owned properties.

“Kara has served the town well as its Economic Development Director for well over a decade, ensuring Brookline has remained a nimble and welcoming community for a diverse group of businesses,” Kleckner said. “She is abundantly qualified for this role and I have no doubt she’ll continue to advocate for responsible growth that aligns with the priorities of Brookline’s residents.”

Brewton also led efforts to earn Town Meeting approval for zoning and regulatory changes to accommodate car share operators, cannabis dispensaries, ground-mounted solar panels, year-round outdoor dining in the wake of the CoViD-19 pandemic and a home rule petition for additional liquor licenses.

“The Planning Department’s next chapter must include experimentation and innovation, in addition to celebrating our day-to-day work”, said Brewton. “We are responsible for positively affecting not only the people that live and work here today, but also those who will be part of the Brookline community in the future. Brookline’s capacity and drive to take action locally and lead on key issues like the region’s housing crisis, our nation’s systemic racial inequities, and our global climate emergency are what make this community such a rewarding place to work.”

Prior to working in Brookline Brewton worked in the private sector in civil engineering, planning, and real estate development. She is a professional civil engineer and holds a master’s degree in urban planning from Harvard Graduate School of Design and a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology.

Town Of Brookline Launches Work From Home Pilot Program

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Town Administrator Mel Kleckner wishes to share that the Town of Brookline began its Work from Home (WFH) Pilot Program for Town Hall employees earlier this month.

The program began Tuesday, September 07, 2021 and will continue for three months, when it will be reevaluated and potentially modified. The program aims to both alleviate longstanding space constraint issues in Town Hall, as well as to help mitigate the spread of CoViD-19. The town hopes that the program will eventually serve as a tool to help employee recruitment and retention.

“This pilot program will provide the town with insight into whether or not work from home options are feasible going forward, even after the pandemic,” said Town Administrator Kleckner. “Space has been an issue at Town Hall for a long time, and it is our hope that this will help remedy the problem, while also addressing CoViD-19 concerns.”

As part of the program, employees have the option to work from home up to three days per week. Employees developed mutually agreed-upon work-from-home plans with their supervisors. Eighty-six employees from 13 departments are participating.

The town plans to measure the potential environmental impact of the program resulting from changing commuting habits. At the end of the three-month trial, the town will issue a survey to assess participants’ modes of transportation to work during the program. The results will be compared to a transportation demand management study conducted by the Town in 2019.

Additionally, residents are reminded that the concierge desk at Town Hall is staffed during business hours. Residents should continue to schedule appointments to meet with specific departments by clicking here. To find contact information for individual departments, visit the town’s online directory here.

Brookline Department Of Public Health To Hold Community Flu Clinic

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Interim Health Commissioner Patrick Maloney is pleased to announce that the Brookline Department of Public Health will hold a free flu clinic for residents next month.

The event will take place on Sunday, October 24, 2021, from 09:00 a.m. to 03:00 p.m., inside Schluntz Gymnasium, Brookline High School, 115 Greenough Street, Brookline, MA 02445.

All Brookline adults, seniors and children 6 months and older are welcome.

Residents, who wish to attend the clinic, are asked to register in advance by visiting here, calling 617-730-2641 or scanning the QR code below.

Residents are asked to wear a short-sleeved or loose-fitting shirt. Face masks are required. Residents also are reminded to stay home if they feel ill.

Additionally, residents are asked to bring all insurance and Medicare cards, and a form of ID with them to the clinic. Individuals without health insurance are welcome; there will be no charge.

The high-dose influenza vaccine, which is authorized for individuals age 65 and up, will not be available at the flu clinic; limited Flu Mist will be available.

“Flu season is approaching quickly, and it is especially important to be protected from all viruses this year given the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic,” said Commissioner Maloney. “We encourage all residents to attend this clinic with their families in order to stay safe, healthy and protected from the flu this winter.”

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East Boston Savings Bank In Brookline To Become HarborOne Bank

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East Boston Savings Bank’s branch on Harvard Street in Brookline is one of four locations that will close and reopen as HarborOne Bank, according to a news release from Rockland Trust Company on Thursday.

According to Rockland Trust, which bought East Boston Savings Bank earlier this year as part of a merger agreement, the arrangement with HarborOne would retain jobs and continue to provide financial services to local communities.

“Due to the considerable overlap in Rockland Trust and East Boston Savings Bank’s respective footprints, we knew that branch closures were inevitable, but we were determined to explore ways to minimize the employee and community impact,” stated Robert Cozzone, Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President of Consumer and Business Banking at Rockland Trust. “It is very rare for competitors in the financial services industry to come together in an agreement like this, but we’re confident that by entering into transactions with Metro Credit Union and HarborOne to transfer these locations, we are doing what’s right for the colleagues who work in these branches and the neighborhoods these branches serve,”

This arrangement included HarborOne acquiring four physical branch sites and maintaining employment at those locations, similar to the accord reached earlier this month between Rockland Trust and Metro Credit Union.

Business Owners In Brookline Sue Town Over Tobacco Ban

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Several Brookline business owners have sued the town, challenging its age-based tobacco prohibition, which is slated to take effect on September 27, 2021.

The plaintiffs, which include Brookline Sunoco, One Stop Market, and Commonwealth Mobil, argue that the recent amendment to Article 14, which prohibits the sale of tobacco and e-cigarettes to anyone born after January 01, 2000, must be reversed for two reasons.

To begin, the complaint asserts that the municipal ordinance is preempted by state law, which permits those above the age of 21 to purchase tobacco. Second, it violates equal protection guarantees by unilaterally classifying the adult population into two different classes with markedly uneven rights.

The law was, however, not only authorized by Town Meeting members last year, but also by Attorney General Maura Healy in July here, who stated that it was “within the Town’s power to defend public health.”

Brookline’s age-based tobacco ban is the first of its sort in the United States, gradually increasing the number of people, who cannot lawfully purchase tobacco products in the town.

A Red Cross Blood Drive In The Brookline Area Is Coming Soon

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The United States is experiencing a catastrophic blood shortage, and the Red Cross is encouraging people of all blood types to donate.

Donors of blood, platelets, or plasma will receive a coupon for a free Zaxby’s signature sandwich during October. Donors who do not live near a Zaxby’s location will receive a $5 e-gift card to any shop.

The American Red Cross recently began a drive to increase the number of African-American blood donors in order to aid people suffering from sickle cell anemia. Over 100,000 people in the United States have sickle cell disease, the majority of whom are Black. Patients frequently require routine blood transfusions but may develop an immunological reaction to blood that is not closely matched to their own, the Red Cross reports.

The information below pertains to a Red Cross blood drive that will take place in the Brookline region in the coming weeks. Additional Red Cross blood drives in a larger area can be found here.

  • Sunday, October 03, 2021: 08:30 a.m. – 01:30 p.m., Temple Beth Zion, 1566 Beacon Street, Brookline, MA 02446

Donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds, and be in generally good condition in the majority of jurisdictions; however, several states allow 16-year-olds to donate with parental authorization. Donors aged 18 and under must adhere to specific height and weight limits.

Donors are encouraged to make an appointment before to attending the drive. Appointments can be made online here, using the American Red Cross Blood Donor Application, or by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS.

Brookline Area Home Prices Continue To Rise

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Nationally, home prices are still rising at their fastest annual rate in 45 years, but a slowdown is expected in the near future.

According to the most recent data from the S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller Index, one of the leading housing market trackers, prices in the Boston MA Metropolitan Division increased 1.8 percent from May to June. Prices increased by 18% in June 2021 compared to June 2020.

Prices in the Boston MA Metropolitan Division’s bottom third of the market — those priced under $495,000, often referred to as starter homes — increased 16.8 percent year over year. The top third of the market (homes priced over $700,000) increased by 17.5 percent.

According to CoreLogic data, national home prices increased 1.8 percent from June to July 2021. Prices increased 18 percent year on year from July 2020 to July 2021, the largest increase in 45 years.

Prices for single-family homes increased by 19.7 percent in the last year, while prices for attached properties such as condominiums increased by 11.6 percent.

Prices are projected to slow to 2.7 percent growth by July 2022 as more buyers are priced out of the market.

Norfolk County is part of the Boston MA Metropolitan Division, a term the U.S. Census Bureau uses to designate areas with strong economic ties. Many MSAs contain more than one county.

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