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Brookline Partners With Modern Pest Services To Reduce Presence Of Rodents Through Digital Technology

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Brookline.com
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Health Commissioner Sigalle Reiss and Department of Public Works Commissioner Erin Chute Gallentine are pleased to announce that the Town of Brookline has partnered with Modern Pest Services to reduce the presence of rodents in town through digital technology.

Modern Pest utilizes Anticimex SMART technology, an intelligent, non-toxic, always-on solution in pest control for businesses, homes and communities.

Brookline, in conjunction with Modern Pest, have identified high-rodent activity areas in town to install above-ground SMART boxes. These boxes will help monitor and control rodent activity while providing real-time data on rodent populations in the community. This data will help the town better deploy resources, including solid waste enforcement, restaurant inspections and additional pest control treatments.

“We are very excited to partner with Modern Pest to minimize the presence of rodents in Brookline through these innovative and unique means,” Town Administrator Chas Carey said. “We thank Commissioners Reiss and Gallentine for working hard to make this initiative possible, and everyone at Modern Pest for their assistance in this process.”

A total of 45 SMART boxes are expected to be installed within the coming weeks. The town also plans to install five pipe systems in high-rodent activity areas.

“Anticimex SMART is regarded as the premier solution to digital pest control in the world,” Modern Pest President David Lock said. “While still relatively new to the US, this technology is proven throughout the world with over 350,000 units deployed worldwide. As a partner of Anticimex, Modern’s access to this technology has provided us with the technology to support our mission to revolutionize pest control. We believe Anticimex SMART and our SMART City concept is the future of pest control in the United States.”

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About Modern Pest Services

Modern Pest Services, an Anticimex company, has been protecting New England’s health and property since 1945. Based in Brunswick, Maine and with over 350 team members, Modern Pest provides quality pest control solutions to over 36,000 homes and businesses in Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut and Vermont.

About Anticimex

The Swedish firm Anticimex is the fourth largest pest control company globally. Founded in 1934, Anticimex operates in 18 countries and has over 7,000 employees worldwide.

Robert T. Lynch Municipal Golf Course Receives Environmental Excellence Award From American Society Of Golf Course Architects

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Brookline.com
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Brookline Recreation Director Leigh Jackson and Robert T. Lynch Municipal Golf Course General Manager Justin Lawson are pleased to announce that the golf course recently received the Environmental Excellence Award from the American Society of Golf Course Architects (ASGCA) and Ewing Irrigation & Landscape Supply.

The Robert T. Lynch Municipal Golf Course was one of five golf courses recognized around the world for finding unique ways to address environmental challenges.

Course staff was recognized for increasing community use of the golf course, while lowering the use of fossil fuels, enhancing the natural environment and improving course conditions. The course has accomplished this by implementing robotic lawnmowers and those to be powered by solar, proposing improvements for drainage, walking paths, as well as future planning for a pond to reduce dependence on the town’s potable water supply.

“It is an honor to be recognized for our environmental efforts and we are happy to be making a positive impact on our course and the community of Brookline,” said Lawson. “Thank you to the ASGCA and Ewing Irrigation & Landscape Supply for recognizing our course and these important environmental measures.”

The Environmental Excellence Awards program was established in 2019 to recognize innovative work being done at golf facilities to address environmental needs. Golf course architects from honored courses collaborate with course owners, operators and managers to make a positive impact on the game of golf and their community.

Submissions are reviewed by a panel of golf industry and environmental leaders, including representatives of GEO Foundation, Golf Course Superintendents Association of America and National Golf Course Owners Association.

“Each of these projects is a testament to the positive impact golf can have on the environment,” ASGCA President Brit Stenson said. “Congratulations to these facilities on their commitment to sustainability and the team effort to improve the environmental landscape. ASGCA thanks Ewing Irrigation & Landscape Supply for supporting the Environmental Excellence Awards.”

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About Robert T. Lynch Municipal Golf Course

Robert T. Lynch Municipal Golf Course is located at 1281 West Roxbury Parkway in Brookline. Founded in 1933, it offers the closest driving range to the city of Boston, as well as a clubhouse and pro shop, all open to the public.

Town Of Brookline Invites Community Members To Veterans Day Commemoration Ceremony

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Brookline.com
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Town Administrator Chas Carey and Brookline Veterans’ Services Director William T. McGroarty wish to invite community members to 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 event will take place on Friday, November 11, 2022, beginning at 11:00 a.m., at the World War Monument at Brookline Town Hall, 333 Washington Street, Brookline, MA 02445.

Attendees will be Representatives of the American Legion Representatives of Veterans of Foreign Wars Representatives of Brookline Veterans’ Services State Rep. Tommy Vitolo Members of the Brookline Police and Fire Departments.

The annual event is organized by Brookline Veterans’ Services, and Director McGroarty will preside over the ceremony. The event will feature a speech from Gregory Taylor, a member of the American Legion Post 11, Vietnam War Veteran and Bronze Star recipient.

Town Administrator Carey will deliver remarks and 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.

The Veterans Day collation will be held immediately following the ceremony.

On the day of the event, Brookline Interactive Group 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 Learn How To Stay Healthy This Winter

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Brookline.com
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Health Commissioner Sigalle Reiss and President of the Friends of Brookline Public Health Richard Segan wish to invite residents to the virtual “Planning for a Healthy Winter in Brookline” question-and-answer session.

The event will take place on Zoom on Monday, November 14, 2022, between the hours of 06:00 p.m. and 06:45 p.m.

To register, please visit here.

During the session, hosted by the Friends of Brookline Public Health and the Brookline Department of Public Health, residents will hear from town officials and public health experts about ways to stay healthy this winter.

Speakers will share the latest CoViD-19 and flu news, vaccines, and preventive measures in Brookline, and answer questions from attendees.

Speakers include:

  • Rosemarie Roque Gordon, MD, MPH, pediatrician, and member of Brookline’s Advisory Council on Public Health;
  • Sigalle Reiss, MPH, RS, REHS, Director of Brookline Public Health and Human Services;
  • Elizabeth Bennett, MSN, CARN, Brookline Public Health Nurse President Segan will moderate the program.

“The winter is typically when we see a rise in illnesses like the flu,” Commissioner Reiss said. “With the colder months on the horizon, it is so important to know ways to try to stay healthy and avoid serious illness. We encourage all residents to attend this informational session.”

For questions or additional information, please contact Lynne Karsten at 617-730-2336 or lkarsten@brooklinema.gov.

Town Of Brookline Welcomes New Assistant Town Administrator For Finance

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Brookline.com
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Brookline Town Administrator Chas Carey and Select Board Chair Heather Hamilton are pleased to welcome Charles Young into the role of assistant town administrator for finance.

Young began his new role Tuesday, October 05, 2022.

As the assistant town administrator for finance, he will be responsible for assisting with the executive functions of the Town’s preparation of the comprehensive financial plan / budget and the annual report. He also will ensure fiscal responsibility through best management practices, methods and techniques of program evaluation, governmental fiscal management and budgeting. Prior to joining Brookline, Young served as the first purchasing agent / financial analyst for the Town of Weston and Weston Public Schools, a research fellow at Suffolk University studying police innovation and a research assistant at the Boston Municipal Research Bureau analyzing the impact of policy decisions on city finances.

“Charles brings a wealth of knowledge to this position through his background in public administration and managing and analyzing municipal budgets,” Carey said. “I am confident that he will be a strong addition to the Town of Brookline’s leadership team and we welcome him into his new role.”

Young is a Certified Massachusetts Public Purchasing Official and a former board member of the Mass Chapter of the American Society for Public Administration.

“I am excited to be joining the Town of Brookline,” Young said. “It is an honor to be joining this vibrant and welcoming community, and I look forward to collaborating with the leadership team in the stewardship of the Town’s finances.”

He holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Maine at Farmington and a master’s degree in public administration from Suffolk University.

Town Of Brookline Releases Commissions, Committees & Boards Demographic Report

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Brookline.com
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Town Administrator Chas Carey and Chief Diversity Officer Lloyd Gellineau are sharing the results of the Town of Brookline’s bi-annual demographic survey of commissions, committees and boards (CCBs).

“To ensure that the concerns and ideas of all individuals are voiced and meaningfully considered, municipalities have an obligation to uphold diversity in their civic engagement opportunities and activities,” Gellineau said.

The Brookline Office of Diversity, Inclusion, and Community Relations has been tracking the town’s progress through demographic surveys and reports to gauge diversity, outreach and engagement in the town’s CCBs every two years, beginning in 2018.

The 2022 survey was distributed to CCB members in July, and was designed to gather demographic data on Town Commission, Committee, Board, and/or Town Meeting Members and other Elected Officials only. The survey was fully voluntary.

By respondents providing the requested information, the Town is better able to assess its progress toward diversity, inclusion, and community engagement within its appointed and elected bodies.

The 2022 Demographic Report of Town Commissions, Committees, Boards and Elected Officials is now available. You can find the downloadable report by visiting here.

Questions regarding the report can be directed to Caitlin Starr, MPH, CDE at cstarr@brooklinema.gov or 617-730-2345.

Please contact Sarah Kaplan, ADA Coordinator, at 617-730-2329 or skaplan@brooklinema.gov with any accessibility questions or requests for reasonable accommodations.

Brookline Police Earn Re-Accreditation From The Massachusetts Police Accreditation Commission

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Brookline.com
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Chief Jennifer Paster is pleased to announce that the Brookline Police Department has earned a Certificate of Re-Accreditation from the Massachusetts Police Accreditation Commission (MPAC).

Brookline Police were awarded the Certificate of Re-Accreditation at a ceremony on Wednesday, October 26, 2022.

The Brookline Police Department has been an accredited agency since 2013. The Massachusetts Police Accreditation Program offers two professional credentialing programs: Certification and Accreditation.

Accreditation is the higher of the two awards, consisting of 257 mandatory standards agencies must meet, as well as 125 optional standards. The Department met all of the required mandatory standards and 74% of the optional standards.

The accreditation process consists of two components: The establishment of a body of professional standards for police agencies to meet and a voluntary assessment process by which agencies can be publicly recognized for meeting those standards considered best practices for the profession.

These components are aimed at providing accountability among agency personnel and ensuring policies are applied evenhandedly; providing a statewide norm against which agencies can judge their performance; providing a basis to correct deficiencies before they become public problems; providing independent evaluation of agency operations; enhancing the reputation of an agency, increasing public confidence; and minimizing insurance costs and agency liability.

Accreditation also ensures the Brookline Police Department is prepared to meet the expectations of the Peace Officers Standards and Training Commission (POST) and the requirements it created as part of the state’s police reform law.

“I would like to thank MPAC for awarding our department Re-Accreditation and I am proud of all the men and women on our team for their unwavering commitment to professionalism in serving Brookline,” said Chief Paster. “This achievement is an affirmation of our department’s commitment to upholding the best policing practices.”

Image caption (from left to right): Representative from Massachusetts Police Accreditation Commission, Detective Keith Lacy, Lt. Andrew Amendola , Brookline Police Chief Jennifer Paster, Officer Peter Muise, and Massachusetts Police Accreditation Commission Secretary and Orleans Police Chief Scott MacDonald. (Photo courtesy Brookline Police Department)

Massachusetts Superior Court Dismisses Challenge To Brookline’s Tobacco-Free Generation Bylaw

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Brookline.com
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Town Administrator Chas Carey announces that the Town of Brookline’s Tobacco-Free Generation bylaw has withstood a court challenge and will remain in effect.

The bylaw took effect in September 2021 following approval by the Office of the Attorney General. The bylaw, which was proposed via citizens’ petition and subsequently adopted by Town Meeting in late 2020, prohibits anyone born after January 01, 2000, from purchasing tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, in Brookline.

The Massachusetts Superior Court on October 17, 2022 granted the town’s motion to dismiss a lawsuit seeking to block the bylaw. The Public Health Advocacy Institute at Northeastern University’s School of Law represented the town pro bono in the case. The work was overseen by Associate Town Counsel John Buchheit. Former First Assistant Town Counsel Patty Correa contributed significantly to the effort through her initial research and the first draft of the Town’s legal brief.

“The dismissal of this challenge is a positive outcome, validating decades of tobacco control work in local government to reduce access to tobacco and nicotine products and prevent disease for future generations.” Public Health Commissioner Sigalle Reiss said. “Brookline has laid the path that other communities may now follow as they seek to keep harmful tobacco products out of the hands of generations to come, and I want to thank all at the Public Health Advocacy Institute whose tireless efforts made this moment possible.”

Since its effective date, the Brookline Department of Public Health and Human Services has taken a proactive role in educating stakeholders about the bylaw.

The plaintiffs in the case have appealed the decision.

Brookline Invites Community To Share Input For New Public Art Installations

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Brookline.com
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The Economic Development Division, in partnership with the Brookline Arts Center (BAC), invite residents to the “Brookline Art Makes Community” engagement event to help bring more public art to commercial areas of Brookline.

The eventwilltakeplaceon Thursday, November 03, 2022, between the hours of 05:00 and 07:45 p.m. in the Beacon Street Art Gallery, located at 1351 Beacon Street, Brooklin, MA 02446.

The initiative is funded by the American Rescue Plan Act.

At the event, attendees will learn about this new public art initiative. They also will have the opportunity to contribute input on preferred types of public art such as murals, sculptures, and lighting installations, as well as preferred locations for these installations.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for residents to gather and share their ideas about public art,” Town Administrator Chas Carey said. “Engagement from residents and community members will help ensure that new public art captures the values and visions of our community and all that makes Brookline so unique. We encourage all residents to attend, especially those who have a passion for art.”

For questions, please contact the Economic Development Planner Aaron Norris at anorris@brooklinema.gov.

Brookline Green Electricity Renewed For Two Years, Default Offering Will Reach 100% Renewable

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Brookline.com
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The Town’s electricity supply program, Brookline Green Electricity (BGE), will begin a new supply contract in December 2022, which will provide fixed prices for the next two (2) years.

The Town is proud to announce that under the new contract, the most popular offering in the Program, Brookline Green, will provide 90% renewable energy in 2023 and 100% in 2024. Brookline Green will also cost less than Eversource Basic Service winter rates in December, although future savings cannot be guaranteed.

“Since 2017, this Town-sponsored program has provided electricity supply to the majority of Brookline’s residents and small businesses, while also providing an effective tool to combat climate change,” said Select Board Chair Heather Hamilton. “We are thrilled that the Program will continue providing value, particularly in this time of energy volatility.”

Brookline Green Electricity has had a substantial impact supporting the growth of renewable energy in New England, and that impact will increase even further in this new contract. By the end of this upcoming contract, BGE Program expects to purchase over 60,000 MWh of voluntary MA Class I renewable energy each year, equivalent to the annual production of 13 land-based wind turbines. MA Class I is the State’s term for new renewable energy, and all of Brookline’s voluntary MA Class I comes from within New England.

Additionally, since the Program launch, Brookline Green Electricity has yielded more than $6.3 million in cumulative savings to participants (future savings cannot be guaranteed).

No action is necessary for most BGE participants to receive the new contract pricing. The “Brookline Green 65” option will no longer be offered, so those customers must affirmatively choose a new Program option. All other BGE participants will be transitioned automatically to the new price for the Program option in which they are now enrolled (see new pricing at the table below).

You can confirm whether you are enrolled in BGE by looking at the Supply Services Section of a recent Eversource electric bill. If it says “Direct Energy Town of Brookline”, then that account is enrolled. If it says something else such as Basic Service Fixed or names a different supplier then that account is not enrolled. Starting with the electricity bill participants receive for December 2022, the Supplier name will change to the reflect Program’s new supplier “Brookline Green Electricity c/o NES.”

BGE Participants may change to another option in the Program at any time or opt out of the Program without penalty. To select a different BGE option or to opt out of the Program, use the online form at BrooklineGreen.com or call the new supplier, NextEra, at 877-960-5514.

For questions about Brookline Green Electricity, please contact the Town’s support line at 800-931-6221.

Town Of Brookline Partners With Helpsy To Offer Free Clothing Recycling Service

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Brookline.com
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The Brookline Department of Public Works is pleased to announce that Brookline has partnered with Helpsy to offer a free and convenient way for residents to responsibly recycle their unwanted clothing and textiles.

Starting this month, Brookline residents can request for their unwanted clothing and textile items to be picked up by Helpsy at their homes. Pickups will take place weekly on Saturdays between 07:00 a.m. and 05:00 p.m. Residents can schedule a home pickup by visiting here or calling 1-800-244–6350. All items should be placed in a closed bag and left outside by the curb on their assigned collection day. Helpsy will accept donations in any type of bag, so long as the items are dry and clean.

Additionally, residents can drop off clothing, shoes, and textiles 24/7 at two Helpsey drop-off boxes at 815 Newton Street across from Skyline Park. Community members are asked to ensure all donations are bagged and placed inside the bins.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, textile waste is the fastest-growing waste stream in the United States, occupying nearly 5% of all landfill space. In an effort to reduce waste statewide, the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection recently enacted new waste ban regulations that prohibit textiles, including clean clothing, footwear, bedding, towels, curtains, fabrics, and more, from being disposed of. Effective Tuesday, November 01, 2022, these items must be recycled or donated for reuse.

“Helpsy and Brookline share a commitment to keep clothing out of our landfills, and give clothing the longest life possible through various recycling methods. We are thrilled to begin this partnership with Helpsy so that we may combine our efforts to keep unwanted textiles from incineration and reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” said Brookline Zero Waste Program Manager Katie Weatherseed.

As the largest clothing collector in the Northeast, Helpsy partners with municipalities and organizations across 11 states to collect unwanted clothing and other textiles in order to keep clothes out of landfills. Brookline is the 24th town to partner with Helpsy, joining 13 other municipalities in Massachusetts offering this service.

In 2021 alone, Helpsy diverted nearly 30 million pounds of textiles from landfills through a combination of clothing drives, home pickups, thrift store partnerships, and clothing receptacles. The collected textiles are either resold to thrift stores, turned into rags for industrial use, or repurposed as stuffing and insulation.

“Helpsy’s mission is to keep clothes out of the trash,” Helpsy Co-Founder & CEO Dan Green said. “We are dedicated to changing the way people think about clothing recycling while adhering to the highest level of social and environmental performance.”

Helpsy is a B Corp Certification, meaning that the business is meeting high standards of verified performance, accountability and transparency on factors from employee benefits and charitable giving, to supply chain practices and input materials.

Helpsy’s service replaces Brookline’s former textile collection service offered by Simple Recycling.

For more information about this program, please visit here or here.

Brookline Town Clerk Shares Important Information For Voters Ahead Of Upcoming Election

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Brookline.com
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The Office of the Town Clerk announces that Brookline residents will have the opportunity to take part in early voting ahead of the upcoming election, and wishes to share important information about voter registration, mail-in voting and more.

The deadline to register to vote in the upcoming election is Saturday, October 29, 2022, at 05:00 p.m. Eligible residents can register to vote online here. Residents may also register to vote by visiting the Town Clerk’s Office at Town Hall.

Early voting will be available for all residents at Town Hall, 333 Washington Street, Room 103 on the following dates:

  • Friday, October 28, 2022, from 08 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
  • Saturday, October 29, 2022, from 10:00 a.m. to 04:00 p.m.
  • Sunday, October 30, 2022, from 10:09 a.m. to 04:00 p.m.
  • Monday, October 31, 2022, from 08:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m.
  • Tuesday, November 01, 2022, from 08:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m.
  • Wednesday, November 02, 2022, from 08:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m.
  • Thursday, November 03, 2022, from 08:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m.
  • Friday, November 04, 2022, from 08:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Registered voters who would like to take part in early voting simply need to visit Town Hall during those hours to request and complete a ballot.

The state election is scheduled for Tuesday, November 08, 2022. To vote on Election Day, registered voters should visit their designated polling place. To determine your polling place or view a sample ballot, click here.

Additionally, any registered voter who would like to vote by mail/absentee in the election may do so online by clicking here, or by scanning and emailing a completed and signed application — available here — to townclerk@brooklinema.gov. Registered voters may also obtain a request form directly from the Town Clerk’s Office at Town Hall.

The deadline to apply for a mail-in/absentee ballot is 05:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 01, 2022, and mail-in/absentee ballots must be received by the Town Clerk’s Office by 08:00 p.m. on election day in order to be counted.

Town Of Brookline Shares Information On MassDEP’s New Waste Ban Regulations

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The Brookline Department of Public Works wishes to share information on the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection’s (MassDEP) new waste ban regulations, which take effect next month.

MassDEP’s 2030 Solid Waste Master Plan established an objective to reduce disposal statewide by 30 percent over the next decade. In an effort to reach this goal, MassDEP has established new rules requiring that mattresses and textiles be kept out of the trash so they can be recycled or donated for reuse, effective Tuesday, November 01, 2022.

According to MassDEP, approximately 300,000 mattresses and box springs are disposed of each year in the state. About 85% of this mattress material can be recycled. Approximately 23,000 tons of textiles are disposed of each year. About 95% of this material can be reused or repurposed.

Additionally, the state has also updated existing legislation requiring that businesses and institutions that dispose of a half-ton or more of organic material per week divert their organic waste from the trash. The previously established threshold was one ton.

Community members are reminded that mattresses and textiles cannot be recycled through household recycling bins. They must be scheduled for pickup or given to organizations that specialize in reselling them second-hand or repurposing them for other uses.

Ways to Recycle Mattresses and Box Springs

Clean mattresses and box springs must be recycled or donated for reuse.

  • Residents on town trash collection service who wish to recycle a mattress should call the DPW at 617-730-2156 to request a mattress pickup.
  • Residents or businesses on private service can search for recycling service providers for mattresses here or here.
  • Residents may search MassDEP’s Beyond the Bin recycling directory for organizations near them that accept mattresses for donation and reuse.
  • More information can be found here.

Ways to Recycle Textiles

All clean clothing, footwear, bedding, towels, curtains, fabric, or similar products must be recycled or donated for reuse.

  • The Town of Brookline recently entered into a partnership with Helpsy for textile recycling. Residents can schedule a free home pickup service for their textiles by visiting here or calling 1-800-244-6350.
  • Two Helpsy textile drop-off boxes, accessible 24 hours a day, are located at 815 Newton Street in Brookline.
  • A list of local charitable organizations that accept textile donations is also available here.
  • More information can be found here.

Recycling Organics / Food Waste

The term “organics” includes all food and vegetative materials (e.g., cut flowers). Liquids, yard waste, biodegradable products (e.g., compostable plates and cups) and compostable paper (e.g., napkins and paper towels) are not included in the ban.

MassDEP offers several resources through RecyclingWorks, a recycling assistance program, to help businesses and institutions better understand how likely it is that their operation will be subject to the commercial organics ban. A Food Waste Estimation Guide developed by RecyclingWorks is available here.

Businesses and institutions can comply with this ban by donating servable food to shelters and food pantries, reducing food waste generation through more efficient food service operations, and/or working with a hauler to send food waste to a composting facility, anaerobic digester or for animal feed.

While the town does not recommend any specific compost haulers for commercial organics, the following companies are currently permitted to operate in Brookline:

RecyclingWorks also offers free technical assistance and guidance to businesses and institutions. To request this service, contact RecyclingWorks at info@recyclingworksma.com or 888-254-5525. Additional information can be found here.

Additional information on the upcoming waste bans can be found here.

Business Owners From Historically Marginalized Groups Encouraged To Utilize “Work With Brookline” Portal

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Brookline.com
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As the Town of Brookline reaches the one-year anniversary of its partnership with Qwally, Town Administrator Chas Carey and Chief Procurement Officer David Geanakakis encourage business owners from historically marginalized groups to utilize the Work With Brookline portal.

The portal, which was created by Qwally, aims to provide support to small businesses, specifically those owned by women, people of color, veterans, LGBTQ+ individuals, and other historically marginalized groups. It also aims to support the establishment of businesses and provide owners with guidance to grow their businesses.

This easy-to-use portal assists owners in the process of establishing their businesses, looking into Supplier Diversity Resource certifications, finding procurement opportunities in Brookline and more. Portals also feature information on legal structure guidance, as well as state, local and federal resources that offer entrepreneurial support.

Interested business owners are encouraged to sign up by visiting here. Users can access the site’s free Quick Start Guide feature to receive a customized checklist that includes information on how to grow their business and work with the town. By answering a few simple questions, the site connects users to tailored information and resources. For additional information on how to use the portal, please visit here.

“This portal is a key part of Brookline’s outreach efforts to individuals of historically marginalized groups. The overall goals of the site are to increase diversity and equity opportunities, make procurement of goods and services more accessible, and provide easy access to information that is usually difficult to find,” Geanakakis said. “We encourage business owners from these groups who have not registered yet to sign up to access this valuable resource.”

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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.

To learn more, please visit here.

Brookline Select Board Unanimously Terminates Ashley Gonzalez From Police Chief Position

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The Select Board has today unanimously voted to terminate the employment of Ashley Gonzalez from the position of Chief of Police following a disciplinary hearing.

Gonzalez was determined to have violated the town’s Policy Against Discrimination, Sexual Harassment and Retaliation, and Brookline Police Department rules and regulations against conduct unbecoming a police officer on multiple occasions and with several employees following an independent review by the firm Comprehensive Investigations and Consulting (CIC).

CIC’s principals include former Secretary of Public Safety and Security and Worcester County First Assistant District Attorney Daniel Bennett and former Massachusetts State Police Colonel Kerry Gilpin.

Gonzalez exercised his right to have the disciplinary hearing held in a closed session. The Select Board reconvened in open session after the hearing to take its vote. The videk recording of the meeting follows.

In its report to the Select Board, CIC recommended Gonzalez’s termination after finding multiple admitted, corroborated and sustained allegations of sexual harassment against female employees of the Brookline Police Department in violation of town policies.

To read a redacted version of CIC’s investigative report, please visit here.

Gonzalez was sworn in as chief on June 01, 2022, and placed on paid administrative leave on August 05, 2022, shortly after town officials received separate reports of multiple alleged instances in which the policy was violated.

“We have a strict zero-tolerance policy against discrimination, sexual harassment and retaliation, and I want to thank the team from Comprehensive Investigations and Consulting for a thorough review of these incidents,” Select Board Chair Heather Hamilton said.

Jennifer Paster is currently serving as acting chief.

Town Of Brookline Invites Community To Workshop About Proposed Redevelopment Of 10 Brookline Place

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Town Administrator Chas Carey and the 10 Brookline Place Committee (10BPC) invite residents to a community workshop about the proposed redevelopment of 10 Brookline Place this month.

The workshop will take place on Wednesday, October 19, 2022, between the hours of 06:00 p.m. – 08:00 p.m., Room 103 of Town Hall, 333 Washington Street, Brookline, MA 02445.

The owner of 10 Brookline Place has proposed that the space be rezoned to accommodate a larger building for laboratory Life Science and other related uses. The current building is used as an administrative office building.

Workshop participants will have an opportunity to share their input on the proposed redevelopment, including massing schemes and other public benefits and amenities. An interactive physical model of the proposed structure will be available. Community feedback from the event will inform 10BPC’s possible recommendations to the Select Board about a rezoning and new use proposal for this site at Town Meeting in spring 2023.

The Select Board appointed 10BPC to review, analyze and propose modifications to the redevelopment proposal presented by the owner.

To learn more about 10BPC, please visit here.

Town Of Brookline Names John Moreschi As First Assistant Town Counsel

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Town Administrator Chas Carey and Town Counsel Joe Callanan are pleased to announce that John Moreschi has been named as the Town of Brookline’s first assistant town counsel. His first day in his new role was Monday, October 03, 2022.

Moreschi earned his B.A. from Merrimack College in 2008, and his J.D. from Boston College Law School in 2011.

Moreschi began his career in public service as counsel to Congresswoman Katherine M. Clark, first in her Massachusetts Senate office and then in her congressional office in Washington, DC. In those roles, John advised the Congresswoman on a number of issues, particularly substance use and criminal justice, with a focus on efforts to help children.

Most recently, he served as deputy counsel to the Massachusetts Senate, where he advised senators and staff on a range of legal, constitutional and administrative matters. Prior to being appointed deputy counsel, John served as an assistant counsel to the Massachusetts Senate and as a senior policy analyst at UMass Medical School’s Commonwealth Medicine.

“The common thread of John’s background and legal experience is public service,” Carey said. “We are excited to see that work extend now to Brookline and I am confident he will continue to make valuable and lasting contributions as a leader in our Legal Department.”

Town Of Brookline Promotes Melissa Goff To Deputy Town Administrator For Policy & Fiscal Affairs

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Brookline Town Administrator Chas Carey and Select Board Chair Heather Hamilton are pleased to announce that Melissa Goff has been promoted to Deputy Town Administrator for Policy and Fiscal Affairs.

Goff has served the Town of Brookline since 2006, beginning her tenure as Assistant Town Administrator. In 2015, she was promoted to the role of Deputy Town Administrator. The Select Board recently reconfigured her role to recognize the importance of her institutional expertise and vital role in the continuation of operations under a new administration.

She was promoted to Deputy Town Administrator for Policy and Fiscal Affairs on Tuesday, September 13, 2022.

This position expands upon her previous role where she is responsible for the preparation of the annual financial plan, preparation of the Town Meeting warrant and associated recommendations and now includes direct oversight of the Planning and Finance Departments. Goff will work with Town Administrator Carey to support the Select Board’s goals for climate change, equity and fiscal stability.

“Melissa has been an asset to the Town of Brookline for more than 15 years,” Chair Hamilton said. “She has excelled in her role as Deputy Town Administrator for the past seven years, which is why the Board chose to enhance her position and utilize her skills as we embark on ambitious goals to continue to make Brookline a highly desirable place to work and live. I look forward to working with her in this new capacity and congratulate her on this well-deserved promotion.”

“Melissa sets a high standard for the rest of Brookline’s stellar corps of public servants,” said Town Administrator Carey. “With her new leadership portfolio, she’ll continue to provide our community with the insight and guidance that’s made her integral to running the Town.”

Before coming to Brookline, Goff served as a Management Analyst and Administrative Assistant for the City of Boston.

“I am so thrilled to be recognized for the value I bring to the organization,” Goff said. “I appreciate the support of the community and my dedicated colleagues, and I thank them for all they have done.”

Goff is a member of the Women Leading Government Committee for the Massachusetts Municipal Managers Association, an ambassador for the International/County Management Association, as well as a member of the Government Finance Officer’s Association.

She holds a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Northeastern University, as well as a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Psychology from Stonehill College.

Town Of Brookline Invites Community To Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration

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The Town of Brookline’s Indigenous Peoples Celebration Committee and Office of Diversity, Inclusion & Community Relations wishes to invite the community to the annual Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration next week, Monday, October 10, 2022, between the hours of 02:00 and 04:00 p.m., ar the Brookline Health Department, 11 Pierce Street.

Since 2019 the Indigenous Peoples Celebration Committee has been building programming and creating space for conversation and celebration surrounding indigenous history and culture.

This year’s event will take place both indoors and outdoors. There will be a brief presentation in the Jennifer Lynch Garden, next to the Health Department, weather permitting. The presentation will include a reading of Brookline’s Land Acknowledgment, which is a formal statement that recognizes and respects indigenous peoples as traditional stewards of this land. The presentation will be followed by a welcome and poetry reading from Committee chairperson Felina Silver Robinson.

The event also will feature several local indigenous craft vendors, as well as free food from Manoa Poke Shop.

Local Brookline organizations will be present with books for sale, state legislature agenda information, and information about local social and environmental actions of indigenous peoples and allies in Brookline and throughout the state.

“This event serves as a great way to celebrate indigenous people while learning about the culture, history and diversity of indigenous people in our state and throughout the nation,” Town Administrator Chas Carey said. “We look forward to commemorating Indigenous Peoples Day and reflecting on its meaning, and we hope that the community will join us for this fun and educational event.”

For reasonable accommodations or for any questions or concerns, please contact Caitlin Starr at cstarr@brooklinema.gov or at 617-730-2345.

Town Of Brookline Further Reduces Residential Parking Requirements

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Brookline Town Administrator Chas Carey and Select Board Chair Heather Hamilton are pleased to announce that the Town of Brookline will further reduce residential parking requirements for certain residential developments thanks to the Town’s groundbreaking use of Massachusetts’s Housing Choice legislation.

The 2021 Fall Town Meeting approved, by majority vote, a change to Town zoning laws to allow reductions in the minimum amount of off-street parking required for residential developments in the Transit Overlay Parking District, an area where the availability of public transit makes off-street parking less necessary in some situations.

This citizen-petitioned zoning change also enables the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) to reduce parking requirements for residential developments anywhere in the Town of Brookline under certain conditions, such as when adding additional housing units. The state’s Housing Choice legislation enables municipalities to approve zoning changes that support housing production with a simple majority rather than two-thirds voting threshold. This zoning change is the first example in Brookline that depended on this legislation, and it is being used primarily to boost housing stock in areas close to public transit. Eliminating unused parking areas also reduces underutilized heat-trapping asphalt in the community while facilitating the creation and maintenance of green space.

“Personal vehicle ownership is less common in areas with easy access to public transportation, and this change to our zoning bylaws reflects that reality, while also giving the ZBA and developers the flexibility to create more housing units in place of unused parking elsewhere,” said Carey. “This measure will help us keep housing options more affordable by reducing construction costs, give us the opportunity to develop more green space, and focus the Town’s growth strategically in areas that are best equipped to support it. I want to thank our Planning Department and the Office of Town Counsel for helping bring the community’s vision of a more dynamic Brookline to life.”

Town Of Brookline Recognized In Fortune’s 25 Best Places To Live For Families

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Town Administrator Chas Carey is pleased to announce that the Town of Brookline has been recognized in Fortune’s 25 Best Places to Live for Families. 

Brookline was ranked 16 in Fortune’s top 25. Fortune analyzed more than 215,000 data points for nearly 2,000 cities and towns across the U.S. to identify the top places that meet the needs of multigenerational families. 

While determining the ranking, Fortune analyzed community services that support multigenerational families, who may be caring for both young children and aging parents. The services highlighted in the analysis include good schools, access to quality health care, community support and resources for aging residents.

Brookline was the only municipality in Massachusetts on the list, and one of two in New England.

Fortune described Brookline as an excellent place to grow up and grow old. Brookline High School earned the GreatSchools College Success Award in 2019 and 2021. Fortune also highlighted organizations like Brookline Senior Center and Brookline Adult and Community Education, which help seniors socialize, learn new skills and continue to feel like part of the community.

“We are thrilled that Brookline was recognized as a great place to live and raise a family,” Carey said. “We pride ourselves on being a vibrant and diverse community, one that aims to support residents of all ages and walks of life. This honor is a testament to our dedicated Town and School District employees, as well as our residents and community members.”

Brookline’s branch of the MBTA’s Green Line trolley system also contributed to the Town’s ranking, due to its convenience for workers. Roughly 30% of workers in Brookline commute by public transportation.

Additionally, Fortune noted Brookline’s vibrant parks, tree-lined streets and bustling metropolitan area downtown, which combine to provide a feel of both urban and suburban living.

To learn more about Fortune’s Top 25 Best Places to Live for Families, places visit here.

Illustration by Studio Muti.

Brookline Department Of Public Health Invites Residents To Fall Vaccination Clinics

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Health Commissioner Sigalle Reiss is pleased to announce that the Brookline Department of Public Health and Human Services will be hosting both Flu and CoViD-19 vaccine clinics this fall.

Brookline Department of Public Health and Human Services will be hosting vaccine clinics beginning in October and going through November. All clinics are free and require registration. Masks are required at all clinics and residents are encouraged to wear loose-fitting clothing.

CoViD-19 Vaccine Clinic Information

The Brookline Health Department will be offering age and series appropriate Pfizer and Moderna CoViD-19 vaccines and bivalent boosters. Pfizer vaccine will be available for age 3+ and Moderna vaccine will be available for ages 18+.

Clinics will be hosted by VaxinateRX in coordination with the Brookline Department of Public Health and Human Services.

The following vaccines will be available based on the most recent FDA/CDC emergency use authorizations: primary vaccine series for anyone ages 3+, 1st boosters at least five (5) months after a primary series for ages 5+, booster of Pfizer bivalent CoViD-19 vaccine for anyone ages 12+, who has completed a primary vaccine series at least two (2) months after last dose, booster of Moderna bivalent CoViD-19 vaccine for anyone ages 18+, who has completed a primary series at least two (2) months after last dose.

Community members who are interested in attending a clinic are required to bring a copy of their insurance card, and CoViD-19 vaccination cards.

For those covered by Medicare please bring your red, white, and blue Medicare card in addition to any other insurance cards.

CoViD-19 Vaccine Clinic Dates:

  • Monday, October 03, 2022, from 05:00 p.m. to 08:00 p.m., at Town Hall, 333 Washington Street. To register for this clinic, please visit here.
  • Monday, October 17, 2022,from 05:00 p.m. to 08:00 p.m., at Town Hall. To register for this clinic, please visit here.
  • Wednesday, October 19, 2022, from 04:00 p.m. to 06:00 p.m., at Florida Ruffin Ridley School, 345 Harvard Street. To register for this clinic, please visit here.
  • Monday, November 14, 2022, from 05:00 p.m. to 07:00 p.m., at Town Hall. To register for this clinic, please visit here.

Flu Vaccine Clinic Information

Families are welcome to receive the Influenza vaccine. Flu-mist nasal spray will be available but there is a limited supply. A limited amount of high dose influenza vaccine for individuals age 65 or older is reserved for homebound residents.

Clinics will be hosted by the Brookline Department of Public Health and Human Services.

Please contact Public Health Nurse, Elizabeth Bennett at 617-730-2320 if you are seeking an influenza vaccine for a homebound resident age 65 or older.

Flu Vaccine Clinic Dates:

  • Sunday, October 23, 2022 from 12:00 p.m. to 03:00 p.m. at the Brookline High School Schluntz Gymnasium, 115 Greenough Street. To register for this clinic, please visit here.
  • Saturday, November 05, 2022 from 10:00 a.m. to 01:00 p.m. at the Brookline High School STEM Building. To register for this clinic, please visit here.
  • Saturday, November 19, 2022 from 12:00 p.m. to 03:00 p.m. at Florida Ruffin Ridley School, 345 Harvard Street. To register for this clinic, please visit here.

Residents are reminded to stay home if they feel ill.

For more information about the vaccine clinics please contact the Brookline Department of Public Health and Human Services at 617-730-2300.

Town Of Brookline Awarded Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness Grant

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Town Administrator Chas Carey is pleased to announce that the Town of Brookline’s Sustainability Division was recently awarded a Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness action grant by the Baker-Polito Administration’s Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs.

This $75,000 grant will help fund a Climate Crisis Action and Resiliency Plan Update, creating a comprehensive actionable framework for the Town of Brookline to achieve zero emissions by 2040. The project will begin in late fall and dovetail with the Brookline Emergency Management Team’s update to our Hazard Mitigation Plan and include an Environmental Justice community tree-planting pilot that will engage our community, sequester carbon, and help with cooling mitigation in one of these neighborhoods.

“Brookline has a longstanding commitment to pursuing sustainability and climate-friendly initiatives, and this grant is just the latest example,” Town Administrator Carey said. “Congratulations to all of the staff and community partners who made this possible, and who will continue the work of developing and achieving meaningful climate goals.”

Select Board Chair Heather Hamilton noted, “Thanks to Sustainability Director Tom Barrasso, this grant will give the Town of Brookline an opportunity to transition into a phase of defining specific, actionable items to address our climate crisis.”

The Town also appreciates the grant support provided by Representative Tommy Vitolo, Director of Planning & Community Development Kara Brewton, Public Works Commissioner Erin Chute Gallentine, Recreation Director Leigh Jackson, Fire Chief John F. Sullivan, Parks & Open Space Director Alexandra Vecchio, Solid Waste Advisory Committee, Zero Emissions Advisory Board, Brookline Chamber of Commerce, the Charles River Watershed Association, Climate Action Brookline, Climate Is Everybody’s Business, and the Charles River Watershed Association.

Brookline DPW Invites Community To Celebrate Reopening Of Cypress Playground

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The Brookline Department of Public Works is pleased to invite the community to attend the Cypress Street Playground Reopening next month.

On Saturday, October 15, 2022, from 02:00-04:00 p.m. the DPW will host a grand reopening celebration at Cypress Street Playground. The Cypress Street Playground Reopening is a celebration of the reconstruction of the playground, fields, picnic areas, plaza and basketball court.

The rain date for the celebration is Sunday, October 16, 2022. The playground remains closed to the public until October 15, 2022.

Cypress Street Playground is one of the first municipal parks established for playground purposes nationwide, built upon land purchased in 1871. At the time, it was conceived to create a public space for various outdoor activities, which was a new and innovative idea.

“The completion of this project marks an important addition to the Brookline High School campus renovation and expansion and we are thrilled to celebrate with the community the renovation of this beautiful park,” Gallentine said. “We are very excited to have this critical green space open once again for students and residents to enjoy.”

The family-friendly event will include live music by PanNeubean Steel, a performance by Bubbles McGee, a scavenger hunt, yard games and light refreshments. Given how close the event is to Halloween, community members are encouraged to attend in their favorite costumes.

For additional information please visit the project website here or e-mail the Parks Department at parks@brooklinema.gov.

The Most Widespread Traditions In Ireland And Where They Come From

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Affectionately called the Emerald Isle, Ireland is a beautiful place to visit. Lots of Irish traditions are well known throughout the world. Its unique customs have made their way into films, TV shows, books and even online casino games such as Irish slots that pay tribute to Ireland and everything to do with it.

Saint Patrick’s Day

This holiday takes place on the 17th of March every year. It honours the death of Saint Patrick, who lived from 385 to 461 AD and is today heralded as Ireland’s primary patron saint. In Ireland, the holiday is celebrated as a religious tradition, though it also has a lot of cultural importance; many who do not follow any religion celebrate it too. 

It is also classed as a holiday in many countries outside Ireland. In these places, it is more lively and merry in nature. In fact, the famous Irish drink Guinness is favoured by a lot of people whilst celebrating the holiday.

Halloween

Ireland’s equivalent of Halloween – which started in the US – is Samhain. This is a Gaelic festival that is held on the first of November, though celebrations typically begin the previous day, i.e. on the day we know as Halloween. It marks the beginning of winter and the end of the harvest season. 

Thanks to surviving literature, we know it was celebrated as far back as the ninth century AD. Whereas Halloween is associated with trick-or-treating and horror, Samhain is more about bonfires and communion with the dead.

Pancake Tuesday

This tradition also goes by the name of Shrove Tuesday. It is celebrated the day before Ash Wednesday, which is the first day of Lent and many people choose to fast for Lent. Shrove Tuesday is therefore associated with eating generously in many places; it’s also linked to confessing sins and repenting. 

Centuries ago, it was common for people to eat pancakes on this day. This was because pancakes are made using butter, eggs, and other foods people would have to discard before the beginning of Lent. Shrove Tuesday’s date changes every year; in 2023, it will take place on the 21st of February.

Bloomsday

This is a holiday celebrated on the 16th of June every year. It is mostly honoured in Dublin, though people living elsewhere in Ireland acknowledge it too. Its purpose is to honour the life and achievements of James Joyce, one of Ireland’s best-known and most influential writers. His seminal work is Ulysses, which can be found on Amazon, a novel that draws inspiration from Homer’s Odyssey.

The novel’s action occurs over a single day: the 16th of June 1904, hence the date of Bloomsday. The holiday is named after Leopold Bloom, who is the novel’s protagonist. It was first celebrated back in 1924 by a small group of people. Nowadays, festivities are much larger, and they include pub crawls, dramatisations and readings of the novel.

Conclusion

These are some of the biggest holidays in the Irish calendar. Many others are celebrated throughout the year, such as various Bank Holidays and, of course, Christmas. If you are in Ireland when one of these holidays is taking place, be sure to join in the festivities.

Brookline Recreation Invites Residents To Participate In Branding Process For The Municipal Golf Course

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Recreation Director Leigh Jackson and Robert T. Lynch Municipal Golf Course General Manager Justin Lawson invite members of the community to join the golf course’s branding effort.

A cornerstone of the golf course’s branding work is the development of a logo, and Brookline Recreation has identified three contenders for its new logo — two of which draw on its iconic clubhouse structure and the third which evokes the branches and pine cones of the hemlock tree.

Members of the community are invited to complete a survey, accessible here, and choose which of the three options they feel best identifies Brookline’s municipal course. In evaluating the choices, residents are encouraged to consider that this new graphic should reflect the history and heritage of the property, its current and future efforts to provide and protect open space, and its commitment to environmental stewardship.

Additionally, the logo must be sufficiently versatile to serve as an icon of the course across a variety of mediums, including signage, apparel and digital media.

“This is an important decision that will have a long-term impact on our facility and the community, so it’s critical that our stakeholders have a say in this process,” Lawson said. “I hope everyone will take a few short moments to review the options and give them thoughtful consideration, which will be a key part of our work now and ultimately guide the future of the golf course.”

Devon Fields Named Brookline’s Assistant Town Administrator For Operations

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Town Administrator Mel Kleckner is pleased to announce that Devon Fields will step into a new role as Assistant Town Administrator for Operations for the Town of Brookline.

Fields began in her new role on Wednesday, August 24, 2022.

Fields has worked as Brookline’s Administrative Services Director since fall 2019, with responsibilities that included overseeing many of the operations of the Office of the Select Board and Town Administrator, coordinating with town partners, digitizing town processes and overseeing the town’s recreational and medical marijuana licensure process.

In her new role, Fields will expand on those responsibilities by participating on the town’s executive team, coordinating the core functions of town government, serving as a principal contact for internal and external stakeholders and overseeing the day-to-day operations — including supervising staff — in the Select Board and Town Administrators’ Offices. Additionally, she will play a key role in constituent services and will serve as the town’s public information officer.

This role fulfills Kleckner’s goal of creating an additional management position as part of the town’s Fiscal Year 2023 budget.

“Devon has been an invaluable member of our team since the day she arrived in Brookline. This is a well-deserved step forward in her career, and I look forward to the increased impact she will have in supporting the town’s work on behalf of its residents,” Kleckner said. “She has made myriad contributions, including taking on a key role in developing and executing the town’s wide-ranging response to the CoViD-19 pandemic, and keeping the community informed about the pandemic’s impacts in Brookline.”

Prior to joining the Town of Brookline, Fields served for four years as the Senior Member Services Coordinator for the Massachusetts Municipal Association, as a graduate assistant in the Bridgewater State University Institute for Policy Analysis and Regional Engagement and as an intern at both the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of Legislative Affairs and in the Office of State Sen. Michael Rodrigues.

She holds a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Bridgewater State University and a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Eckerd College.

Fields is a native of Lakeville and resides in Winthrop with her husband and two dogs.

Brookline Recreation Asks For Public’s Patience And Support Amid Staff Shortage

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Recreation Director Leigh Jackson announces that Brookline Recreation is experiencing a significant staff shortage, and asks for the public’s patience and support during this time.

Brookline Recreation program areas experiencing a shortage include the After School Program, Soule Early Childhood Center and the Aquatics Center. The Jack Kirrane Ice Skating Rink also is expected to have potential staff shortages this winter.

As a result of the shortage, the After School Program is unable to open on Monday, September 12, 2022. The Department understands the negative impacts this will have, and is working to find alternate options for affected parents and caregivers until the program can reopen.

Additionally, the Department has increased its recruiting efforts across all programs. The Department began the hiring process for the Ice Skating Rink two months earlier than usual in hopes of obtaining enough staff to open the rink on time. The Rink usually opens around December 22, 2022, dependent on weather.

“It is our mission to always provide Brookline residents with the best possible service, and we will continue to strive toward this goal amid this staff shortage,” Director Jackson said. “We ask for the community’s patience and understanding as we adjust and respond to the shortage, and encourage all those interested in joining the Brookline Recreation team to visit our website to learn more about job opportunities.”

The department has posted openings for part-time and full-time jobs in these programs. Those interested are encouraged to apply on the Town of Brookline’s website here.

Brookline Recreation Invites Community To Brookline Day 2022 At Coolidge Corner

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Brookline Day is intended to celebrate the community as a great place to live, work and play in, while fostering a connection among residents, neighbors and businesses.

The event this year is shifting from its traditional location at Larz Anderson Park in an effort to support local businesses affected by the CoViD-19 pandemic and to increase accessibility.

It will take place on Sunday, September 18, 2022, from 11:00 a.m. to 03:00 p.m.

The event will feature food, prizes and unique attractions such as a Mini Town Hall and Wellness Stage, which will include demonstrations by Boston School of Boabom, Coolidge Corner Yoga, Lynn Modell Dance, Outback Physical Therapy and Puppet Showplace Theater.

There will be live music from Vanessa Trien & the Jumping Monkeys, Karate Show and more. Children can also enjoy the Kidz Zone, which features inflatable bounce houses, face painting, games and a Touch-a-Truck event.

The Town wishes to thank Presenting Sponsor Brookline Bank; Gold Sponsor Viking Sports; Bronze Sponsors Brookline Library Foundation, City on a Hill Church, Compass | Cheryl Cotney, Courtyard Marriott Brookline, Kaplansky Insurance, Liriano Wealth Advisory Group, LLC, Route 9 Dental, Skin Center Boston and The Center for Pediatric Dental Care; and Benefactor Sponsors Brookline Republican Town Committee, Pine Village Pre-School, The Golden Chickpea Center and Unlimited Sotheby’s International Realty.

“We are thrilled to be hosting Brookline Day at Coolidge Corner this year, and are ready and excited to celebrate our Town and all it has to offer for the first time in two years,” Director Jackson said. “This gathering brings together so many from our community, including Town agencies, businesses, and partners, and we encourage our residents to join them on this special and fun day.”

The Town is excited to once again hold Brookline Day after a two-year hiatus due to the CoViD-19 pandemic.

For more information on Brookline Day, please visit here.

Residents Urged To Take Precautions After Second Human Case Of West Nile Virus Was Detected

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Health Commissioner Sigalle Reiss and the Brookline Department of Public Health report that the Massachusetts Department of Public Health has announced that a second human case of West Nile Virus (WNV) has been detected in the Greater Boston area.

As a result, the risk level for Brookline has increased from moderate to “high”. Residents are urged to take the necessary precautions against mosquito bites and to be aware of the risks of mosquito-borne illnesses. Persons over 50 years of age or those who are immune compromised should adjust outdoor activities to avoid peek mosquito hours, from dusk to dawn.

In Massachusetts, public health surveillance is performed for two mosquito-borne viruses — West Nile Virus (WNV) and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). The risk of contracting either disease is highest from late July through the fall, until the first frost.

Mosquitoes get WNV and EEE by biting infected birds. People and animals can contract these diseases by being bitten by an infected mosquito. There is no evidence that a person will get these viruses from handling live or dead infected birds or animals. However, gloves should be worn when handling any dead animals, and double plastic bags used to discard them in the trash.

Most people bitten by mosquitoes carrying WNV will experience no symptoms or very mild symptoms, and will recover on their own. Persons over 50 years of age have the highest risk of severe WNV disease.

The Brookline Department of Public Health is involved in active surveillance for mosquito-borne viruses. Mosquito collecting and testing, which provide a more reliable indication of current WNV activity, began in early July.

The Town of Brookline will be doing the following to address this issue:

  • Larvicide has been applied to all catch basins and some wetland areas to prevent the hatching of new mosquitoes.
  • Mosquito traps have been established, and mosquito batches are being tested for the virus.
  • There will be inspection and enforcement of standing water areas in parks, fields, tires, etc.
  • Spraying to kill adult mosquitoes may be done only if absolutely necessary and if recommended by the State. Every effort will be made to notify residents about spraying in advance.

Avoid Mosquito Bites

The Brookline Department of Public Health offers the following tips:

  • Apply insect repellent when outdoors. Use a repellent with DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide), permethrin, picaridin (KBR 3023), oil of lemon eucalyptus [p-methane 3, 8-diol (PMD)] or IR3535 according to the instructions on the product label. DEET products should not be used on infants under two months of age and should be used in concentrations of 30% or less on older children. Oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under 3 years old. Permethrin products are intended for use on items such as clothing, shoes, bed nets and camping gear, and should not be applied to skin.
  • Avoid areas that tend to have a lot of mosquitoes, such as wetlands or swampy areas.
  • Clothing can help reduce mosquito bites. Wearing long sleeves, long pants and socks when outdoors will help keep mosquitoes away from your skin.
  • Be aware of peak mosquito hours. The hours from dusk to dawn are peak biting times for many mosquitoes. Consider rescheduling outdoor activities that occur during the evening or early morning. If you are outdoors at any time and notice mosquitoes around you, take steps to avoid being bitten by moving indoors, covering up and/or wearing repellant.

Mosquito-Proof Your Home

  • Drain standing or stagnant water in and around your home or business. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Limit the number of places around your home for mosquitoes to breed by either draining or discarding items that hold water. Check rain gutters and drains. Empty any unused flowerpots and wading pools and change water in bird baths frequently.
  • Install or repair screens. Keep mosquitoes outside by having tight-fitting screens on all of your windows and doors.
  • Repair leaking pipes and outdoor faucets.
  • Keep your grass cut short and bushes near your house trimmed so mosquitoes cannot hide.
  • Call the Brookline Department of Public Health if you see standing water problems that are not on your property.

Anyone with questions should contact the Brookline Department of Public Health at 617-730-2300.

Information about WNV and reports of current and historical WNV activity in Massachusetts can be found on the Massachusetts Department of Public Health website here.

Chas Carey Named Next Brookline Town Administrator

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The Select Board is pleased to announce it has appointed Charles “Chas” Carey as the Town of Brookline’s next Town Administrator.

Carey will begin his role next month upon the departure of outgoing Town Administrator Mel Kleckner.

Carey led the New York City Mayor’s Office of Housing Recovery Operations until earlier this year, running programs that helped vulnerable communities recover from Hurricane Sandy, Hurricane Ida, and the CoViD-19 pandemic. He concurrently served as special counsel to NYC Health + Hospitals, the nation’s largest public health provider, providing pandemic-related support to its legal team.

“I look forward to joining Brookline’s incredible team and furthering the town’s goals of sustainability, equity, inclusivity and continued leadership in the fight against climate change,” Carey said. “I’m eager to build upon Brookline’s successes and face both the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in partnership with the entire community.”

He holds a juris doctor degree from Georgetown University, a Master of Fine Arts degree from Warren Wilson College, and a Bachelor of Arts degree from Columbia University. Carey grew up in Concord and recently moved to Cambridge, where he lives with his wife and their two young children.

Carey was identified and ultimately selected following an extensive search led by Community Paradigm Associates, in close collaboration with the Town Administrator Screening Committee. As part of that effort, Community Paradigm worked closely with members of the committee to review materials submitted by the applicants, consider and deliberate over the selection of candidates for initial interviews, and develop interview questions and take part in the interview process.

The search was a nationwide effort and placed an emphasis on soliciting applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds and skillsets.

Carey most recently served as a Managing Consultant with Guidehouse, LLP in its State and Local Government Practice.

Image courtesy of Adrian Buckmaster.

Brookline Department Of Public Works Announces Reopening Of Renovated Cypress Field

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Commissioner Erin Chute Gallentine and the Brookline Department of Public Works are pleased to share that Cypress Field is now open following extensive renovation work.

Cypress Field reopened to the public on Saturday, August 20, 2022, once redesign and reconstruction work that began nearly three years ago was completed. The field, which is located next to Brookline High School, features a new subsurface drainage system and stormwater filtration system.

The soil is a mixture of topsoil from the previous field, as well as sand and organic matter that was meticulously designed to improve water infiltration and keep the field healthy year-round. Residents are reminded that Cypress Field is not part of Brookline’s Green Dog Program and that dogs must be on a leash at all times while on the field.

“While work on this project was delayed by the pandemic, the completion and reopening of Cypress Field has been one of our top priorities and we are glad the day has finally come when can invite our community back onto the field,” Gallentine said. “This is a critical outdoor space for students, residents, and athletes. We look forward to seeing everyone enjoy it once again.”

While Cypress Field is now open, work continues at the neighboring Cypress Playground, which is expected to be completed this fall. Brookline DPW will provide updates on that project’s progress, including an expected reopening date, soon.

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