Town Administrator Chas Carey and DPW Commissioner Erin Chute are pleased to announce the appointment of Alexandra Vecchio as the new Sustainability and Natural Resources Director, a pivotal role in the Department of Public Works. This strategic appointment underscores the Town’s unwavering commitment to making sustainability a cornerstone of local governance and advancing its climate action goals.
“Alexandra’s skills, expertise, and passion for sustainability all align perfectly with the Select Board’s vision for this new Public Works division that will help to ensure Brookline’s resilient future,” remarked Town Administrator Carey.
DPW Commissioner Chute added, “I am confident that Alexandra’s leadership will be instrumental in driving the community’s sustainability initiatives forward and enhancing the quality of life for all residents through conscientious environmental stewardship and innovative resource management.”
As the Sustainability and Natural Resources Director, Vecchio will lead the Town’s efforts to integrate sustainable practices across all levels of local government and the community. Her primary responsibilities will include developing and implementing policies that promote environmental sustainability, overseeing climate adaptation and mitigation strategies, and fostering partnerships among government agencies, local businesses, and residents to enhance Brookline’s environmental resilience.
Vecchio brings a wealth of experience and a robust educational background to her new role. She holds a master’s degree from Yale University’s School of Forestry and Environmental Studies, specializing in Climate Adaptation and Land Use Planning.
Prior to her new appointment, Vecchio served as the Director of Parks and Open Space for the Town of Brookline, where she made significant strides in enhancing the Town’s green spaces and promoting public engagement with nature. Her professional experience includes her role as the Climate Change Program Director at Mass Audubon and as a federal policy advisor for U.S. Rep. Mike Quigley, where she managed a diverse policy portfolio that spanned energy, natural resources, agriculture, education, and housing.
This new role within the Department of Public Works strategically positions the Sustainability and Natural Resources Division to directly influence operational practices, ensuring that sustainability and climate considerations are at the forefront of community planning and public works projects. The alignment with DPW will facilitate the integration of sustainability into everyday operational decisions, enhancing the Town’s capacity for environmental stewardship and resilience.
Reflecting on her new role, Vecchio expressed enthusiasm about her upcoming responsibilities: “I am thrilled to embark on this new chapter with the Town of Brookline. This role offers a unique opportunity to leverage our collective resources and expertise to build a more sustainable and resilient community. I look forward to working with all sectors of the Town to turn our climate goals into actionable realities that will benefit current and future generations.”
